Israeli forces demolished multiple structures at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) compound in East Jerusalem on January 20, 2026, escalating tensions in the contested city. The move drew immediate condemnation from UN officials who called it "a flagrant violation of international law."
Witnesses reported bulldozers entering the site early Tuesday morning, destroying facilities used for Palestinian refugee support services. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini stated the agency "strongly condemns this unilateral action undermining humanitarian operations" in an official statement released hours after the incident.
Israeli authorities claim the demolished structures lacked proper permits, while Palestinian leaders denounced the action as "systematic erasure of international protection mechanisms." The demolition comes amid heightened regional tensions following recent clashes at Jerusalem's holy sites.
Analysts suggest this development could impact ongoing mediation efforts by Arab states and complicate international relations ahead of the upcoming APEC members' meeting in February. Humanitarian organizations warn the destruction may exacerbate challenges for over 50,000 Palestinian refugees registered with UNRWA in East Jerusalem.
