• Israel demolished several buildings at the UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem, citing unpaid property taxes.
• UNRWA condemned the demolition as an 'unprecedented attack' and a violation of international law.
• This action follows a law passed by Israel banning UNRWA operations due to alleged ties to Hamas.

In a significant escalation of tensions, Israeli forces demolished structures within the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) compound located in East Jerusalem on Tuesday. The destruction was carried out by bulldozers, accompanied by military personnel, after the site was seized by Israel last year. UNRWA has condemned the demolition as a violation of international law and its privileges as an agency of the United Nations, labeling the act an "unprecedented attack," according to Reuters and India Times.

The demolition of the compound included the removal of multiple large structures that were used for storing humanitarian aid intended for both the West Bank and Gaza. UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler stated, "This is a serious violation of international law," and indicated that the compound's premises remained under UN protection despite Israel's assertions to the contrary, as reported by Al Jazeera and South China Morning Post.

Israel's actions appear to stem from a law passed in October 2024 that effectively bans UNRWA from operating within its borders, alleging that some staff contributed to acts of violence associated with Hamas. However, UNRWA has disputed these claims, stating that the evidence provided by Israel is insufficient and unsubstantiated. Despite these allegations, the agency continues to provide essential services to approximately 2.5 million Palestinian refugees, as noted by Reuters and Al Jazeera.

According to the Israeli foreign ministry, the actions taken at the compound were legally justified, asserting that it lacked UN immunity. Furthermore, the Israeli municipality cited unpaid property taxes amounting to 11 million shekels (about $3.4 million) as another reason for the demolition, which UNRWA denies, claiming no outstanding debts. This complex situation has continued to draw international scrutiny, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warning that Israel's actions may contravene its international legal obligations, as reported by South China Morning Post and India Times.