The European Union condemns the demolition of the UNRWA headquarters in Jerusalem and affirms its continued support for the agency

The European Union strongly condemned the Israeli authorities’ decision to demolish the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem, describing the move as a serious attack on a United Nations agency and a clear violation of Israel’s obligations under the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations.

The European Union spokesman said in a statement issued by the European External Action Service that the member states of the United Nations are obligated to protect and respect the sanctity of the United Nations headquarters, stressing that what happened contradicts these international legal obligations.

The statement stressed that the European Union remains a steadfast supporter of the United Nations, of which UNRWA is an essential part, and renews its full commitment to the multilateral international system based on international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter, pointing out that United Nations agencies play a pivotal role in maintaining global security and protecting and promoting basic human rights.

The European Union stressed its commitment to continuing its political and financial support for UNRWA, stressing that the agency constitutes an essential provider of humanitarian aid, education and health care services in the occupied Palestinian territory.
The statement indicated that the continued work of UNRWA is a vital element in meeting urgent humanitarian needs and supporting stability in the region.