Israeli forces have begun demolishing the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinian refugees in east Jerusalem, in an operation the UN described as an “unprecedented attack.”
UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler said Israeli forces entered the compound at around 7 a.m., ousted security personnel, and deployed bulldozers to demolish structures. Fowler condemned the action as a “serious violation of international law and UN privileges and immunities,” warning that similar actions could threaten other international organisations worldwide.
AFP photos showed heavy machinery destroying buildings at the site, where an Israeli flag now flies. Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir visited the compound, calling the demolition a “historic day” and a removal of “supporters of terrorism.”
Israel has accused UNRWA of covering for Hamas militants, linking some employees to the October 7, 2023 attacks on Israel. Investigations, including one led by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, noted “neutrality-related issues” at UNRWA but found no conclusive proof of the allegations.
The Israeli foreign ministry defended the demolition, stating the compound is Israeli property and does not enjoy UN immunity under local law. UNRWA staff have not been present at the site since January 2025, following legislation banning its operations in east Jerusalem.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres and UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini have condemned the seizure, noting the compound remains UN premises under international law.
