UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler told AFP that Israeli forces “stormed into” the compound shortly after 7am (0500 GMT), ousting security guards before bulldozers moved in to demolish buildings
Israeli bulldozers began demolishing the headquarters of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) in east Jerusalem on Tuesday, an act the organisation described as “unprecedented.”
UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler told AFP that Israeli forces “stormed into” the compound shortly after 7am (0500 GMT), ousting security guards before bulldozers moved in to demolish buildings.
“This is an unprecedented attack against UNRWA and its premises and a serious violation of international law and the privileges and immunities of the United Nations,” Fowler said.
He added, “What happens today to UNRWA can happen tomorrow to any other international organisation or diplomatic mission around the world.”
AFP images showed heavy machinery tearing down structures at the site, where an Israeli flag was raised.
Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir visited briefly, calling the demolition “a historic day” and a victory over “supporters of terrorism.”
Israel has long accused UNRWA of providing cover for Hamas, claiming some staff were involved in the October 7, 2023 attacks that triggered the Gaza war.
Investigations, including one led by France’s former foreign minister Catherine Colonna, noted “neutrality-related issues” but found no conclusive proof supporting Israel’s main allegation.
The Israeli foreign ministry defended the demolitions, stating the Jerusalem compound “belongs to the state of Israel” and is not entitled to immunity.
“The seizure was carried out in accordance with Israeli and international law,” it said, adding that the UNRWA site in east Jerusalem had been empty since January 2025, when Israel banned its operations in the area.
UNRWA continues to operate in the occupied West Bank and Gaza.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini had previously criticised Israel’s seizure of the compound’s assets, including furniture and IT equipment, and the replacement of the UN flag with an Israeli one.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the “unauthorised entry,” emphasising the compound’s status as inviolable United Nations premises.
AFP
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