EU Condemns Demolition of UNRWA Headquarters in East Jerusalem

The European Union (EU) has condemned an Israeli decision to forcibly enter and demolish a United Nations compound in Sheikh Jarrah, East Jerusalem, used by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.

In a strongly worded statement, the EU condemned the decision by the Israeli authorities to enter and demolish the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem, and declared it a serious attack against the UN agency, and constitutes a violation of Israel's obligations under the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations according to which UN Member States must protect and respect the inviolability of UN premises.

The EU stressed its commitment as a staunch supporter of the United Nations, of which UNRWA is a part, and is fully committed to a multilateral system, based on international law and the principles of the UN Charter. UN agencies implement these and play a crucial role in maintaining global security and protecting and fulfilling fundamental human rights.

The EU affirmed its continuous political and financial support to UNRWA. UNWRA is an important provider of humanitarian aid, education, and health services in the occupied Palestinian territory,"