UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned Israel's demolition of a United Nations compound in East Jerusalem, calling for immediate cessation of the action. The statement, delivered by Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq on January 21, 2026, demands the restoration of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) premises to UN control.
The demolished facility reportedly provided critical services to Palestinian refugees, including education and healthcare. Guterres emphasized that such actions violate international law and undermine humanitarian efforts in the region. This incident marks the latest escalation in tensions over East Jerusalem's status, which remains a focal point of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Analysts suggest the move could strain Israel's diplomatic relations amid ongoing debates about settlements in occupied territories. The UN has urged all parties to prioritize dialogue to avoid further destabilization.
