Jerusalem – The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has strongly condemned the incursion of Israeli forces into its headquarters located in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of East Jerusalem. The agency described the action as an “unacceptable violation.”
The incident, which occurred earlier today, has raised serious concerns regarding the safety and security of UNRWA personnel and the integrity of its operations within the occupied territory. UNRWA officials stated that the Israeli forces entered the premises without prior notification or coordination, disrupting normal activities and causing considerable alarm.
“This intrusion represents a grave breach of international law and the principles of humanitarian protection,” a spokesperson for UNRWA stated. “UNRWA premises are inviolable and must be respected by all parties. Such actions undermine our ability to provide essential services to Palestinian refugees who are already facing immense hardship.”
The Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood has been a focal point of tensions in recent months, with ongoing disputes over land ownership and residency rights. The presence of UNRWA in the area is crucial for providing assistance to vulnerable Palestinian families, including food, healthcare, and education.
UNRWA is calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and assurances that such violations will not be repeated in the future. The agency emphasized the importance of maintaining a neutral and impartial humanitarian space to effectively carry out its mandate of supporting Palestinian refugees. The incident comes at a particularly sensitive time, as UNRWA faces increasing financial challenges and mounting humanitarian needs within the Palestinian territories.
The agency reiterated its commitment to continuing its work in providing vital assistance to Palestinian refugees, despite the obstacles and challenges it faces. However, it stressed that the safety and security of its personnel and premises must be guaranteed by all parties to ensure the effective delivery of humanitarian aid.
