Overview
- Israeli police and land-authority teams entered UNRWA’s Sheikh Jarrah compound at dawn on January 20, seized staff devices, expelled private security and began tearing down buildings.
- National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir appeared on site and praised the operation as a “historic day,” and an Israeli flag was raised over the complex.
- UNRWA and the UN Secretary-General condemned the move as a serious violation of the Convention on Privileges and Immunities and urged Israel to stop, restore and return the premises.
- Israel says the action implements Knesset measures passed in 2024 and late 2025 that outlaw UNRWA and authorize recovery of properties, noting the headquarters had been inactive for more than a year.
- UNRWA reports humanitarian stocks and services are at risk, with tear gas used at its Qalandia vocational school that trains more than 300 young refugees, and officials warn of potential international legal steps.