Israel demolished the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) headquarters in Jerusalem on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, following legislation passed by the Knesset in October 2024. The move comes amid ongoing tensions over UNRWA's operations in Israel and allegations of ties to Hamas.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Israeli authorities dismantled several buildings within the UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem, citing the land as state property without proper authorization. The demolition occurred despite UNRWA's claims that the agency had not operated from the site since early 2025 due to safety concerns.
UNRWA officials condemned the action as a violation of international law, while Israeli officials framed it as a restoration of sovereignty and a response to alleged security threats posed by the agency.
Deeper Dive & Context
Official Rationale
Israeli officials, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen, justified the demolition by asserting that UNRWA employees were involved in the October 2023 Hamas attack and that the agency's infrastructure had been misused for terrorist activities. The Israeli government also cited Knesset legislation banning UNRWA operations in Israel and mandating the cutoff of water and electricity to its facilities.
Cohen confirmed that Israel would begin shutting down utilities to UNRWA properties starting Wednesday, January 21, 2026, with the process to be completed within two weeks.
International Response
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini condemned the demolition as an "unprecedented attack" and a "deliberate defiance of international law." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also criticized the move, calling it inconsistent with Israel's obligations under international law.
Some international observers have raised concerns about the broader implications for humanitarian aid in the region, particularly for Palestinian refugees who rely on UNRWA services.
Historical and Political Context
Israel has long accused UNRWA of perpetuating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by maintaining the refugee status of Palestinians and their descendants, rather than facilitating their resettlement. UNRWA has denied these allegations, emphasizing its humanitarian mandate.
The demolition follows years of escalating tensions, including Israeli raids on UNRWA facilities and allegations of bias against the agency. UNRWA has taken disciplinary action against some employees accused of involvement in the October 2023 attack but maintains that it operates independently and neutrally.
Legal and Diplomatic Implications
The move has sparked debate over Israel's legal authority to dismantle UN facilities and the potential consequences for international relations. Some analysts suggest it could further strain Israel's ties with the United Nations and other international bodies.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials have dismissed international criticism, with Cohen describing it as "global hypocrisy" and accusing critics of antisemitism.