Israeli forces raided the headquarters of the UNRWA in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of occupied East Jerusalem early Monday morning. Local sources reported that the forces stormed the compound, conducted searches throughout the premises, and confiscated the mobile phones of security guards.
According to UNRWA, the unauthorized and forceful entry constitutes a grave violation of the privileges and immunities afforded to United Nations agencies — a breach of international law.
The raid involved reinforced Israeli security units; guards were detained and their communications cut off, leaving the compound sealed and uncommunicative for hours.
The timing of this action comes shortly after the UN General Assembly voted to renew UNRWA’s mandate. Critics argue that the raid reflects a sustained campaign by Israeli authorities to dismantle UNRWA’s presence in East Jerusalem and undermine its role in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees.
