Israel bulldozes UNRWA buildings in occupied East Jerusalem

Al JazeeraCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera StaffJanuary 20, 2026 at 10:45 AM

AI Summary

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In January 2026, Israel bulldozed buildings within the UNRWA headquarters in occupied East Jerusalem. The action follows increased Israeli restrictions on humanitarian organizations aiding Palestinians in Gaza. UNRWA reported that Israeli forces confiscated staff devices and forced personnel out of the Sheikh Jarrah headquarters. According to UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini, Israeli lawmakers were present during the demolition, which he described as an attack on the Palestine refugee identity. Israel's Foreign Ministry stated the demolition was in accordance with a new law banning the organization, while National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir hailed it as a "historic day." The incident has drawn condemnation amid Israel's broader ban on international aid organizations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Hamas 30% Ministry of Foreign Affairs 40% Sheikh Jarrah 50% Itamar Ben-Gvir 50% Palestinians ×260% Philippe Lazzarini 60% Gaza ×270% East Jerusalem ×285% Israel ×890% UNRWA ×895%

Keywords

unrwa 100% israel 90% east jerusalem 80% demolition 70% humanitarian aid 70% palestinian refugees 60% occupied territory 50% international law 50% aid organizations 40%