United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned Israel’s decision to establish military facilities inside the UNRWA compound of East Jerusalem. This is the compound that Israeli authorities seized in January.
Guterres labels Israel’s military takeover of the East Jerusalem compound a breach
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Guterres said he condemns in the strongest terms the move. He described it as an unprecedented and escalatory measure against the UN agency responsible for Palestinian refugees.
The Secretary-General noted that Israel’s action breaches the inviolability of UN premises. He added that the plan obstructs the General Assembly’s clear mandate for UNRWA to continue its operations across the occupied Palestinian territory.
“UNRWA is an integral part of the United Nations, and the UNRWA Sheikh Jarrah compound remains United Nations premises,” Guterres declared.
Guterres viewed the continuing escalatory actions against UNRWA as wholly unacceptable. He expressed deep regret that Israeli authorities persist in taking steps that violate their obligations concerning the privileges and immunities of the United Nations.
East Jerusalem: ICJ affirms Israel cannot exercise sovereign powers
Citing the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Guterres affirmed that such actions are unlawful. He reiterated that the State of Israel is not entitled to exercise sovereign powers in any part of the occupied Palestinian territory.
“Israel is under an obligation to bring to an end its unlawful presence in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, as rapidly as possible,” the UN chief said.
The Israeli government has yet to issue an official response to the Secretary-General’s condemnation.
The UN’s Tom Fletcher has urged citizens not to allow politicians to get away with boasting about aid cuts. Fletcher’s call to action comes following a harrowing visit to Akobo, South Sudan.
The UN Chief said humanitarian organizations have opened access across conflict lines to reach these vulnerable populations.
Similarly, the United Nations humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, also said one percent of global arms spending could fund life-saving aid for 87 million people in 2026. He appealed as the UN launched a reduced humanitarian funding plan amid declining donor funding.