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Iran condemns Israeli demolition of UNRWA headquarters in occupied al-Quds

A photograph shows machinery demolishing a structure inside the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of occupied al-Quds on January 20, 2026. (Photo by AFP)

Iran has strongly condemned the Israeli regime’s attack on the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in occupied al-Quds and the destruction of buildings belonging to the UN body.

Speaking on Thursday, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei recalled the immunity of UN premises, property, and personnel under international instruments, particularly the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, as well as the rules of international humanitarian law.

He said the attack on UNRWA’s headquarters and the occupation of its buildings constitute a criminal act and an unprecedented assault on the United Nations, calling for an effective and responsible response by the international community, especially the UN itself.

Israeli forces demolished structures at the headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in occupied East al-Quds, drawing strong condemnation from the UN agency, which labeled the action as an unprecedented breach of international law.

In a statement released on Tuesday, UNRWA reported that Israeli troops invaded its compound in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, confiscated equipment from staff, and forcibly expelled employees before demolishing buildings within the premises.

Baghaei noted that the demolition of UNRWA facilities is part of Israel’s “systematic policy” to deprive the Palestinian people of basic humanitarian services, noting that the move comes amid the ongoing genocide against Palestinians.

He also underlined the responsibility of Israel’s supporters, particularly the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, in contributing to the current situation.

Referring to Israel’s continued violations and crimes in the occupied Palestinian territories and across West Asia, the Iranian diplomat warned that “continued inaction against such dangerous actions has not only further weakened the effectiveness and credibility of the United Nations, but has also exposed international peace and stability to unprecedented threats.”

Separately, Hamas issued a statement condemning the demolition, describing it as a “flagrant violation of international laws,” urging strong and unequivocal international condemnation of the “reckless criminal act.”

The demolition comes amid mounting international criticism of Israel’s restrictions on aid groups operating in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

In recent weeks, Israel has revoked the licenses of at least 37 international organizations, including Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and the Norwegian Refugee Council, citing non-compliance with new regulations requiring detailed disclosures on staff, funding, and operations.


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