NEW YORK: The United Nations Secretary General has condemned in the strongest terms the demolition of the UNRWA Sheikh Jarrah compound by Israeli authorities, calling the action a violation of international law and the inviolability of United Nations premises.
In a statement issued by Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq, the Secretary General said the Sheikh Jarrah compound remains United Nations property and is “inviolable and immune from any form of interference.”
He reiterated that this position had been clearly communicated to the Israeli Government, including in a letter sent to the Prime Minister of Israel on 8 January.
The Secretary-General described the continued actions against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) as “wholly unacceptable,” warning that they represent an escalation inconsistent with Israel’s obligations under international law.
These obligations include those outlined in the Charter of the United Nations and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations.
He urged the Government of Israel to immediately halt the demolition and to return and restore the Sheikh Jarrah compound, along with other UNRWA premises, to the United Nations without delay.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions surrounding UNRWA operations and facilities, as the agency continues to play a central role in providing humanitarian assistance and essential services to Palestinian refugees.
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