Algerian Radio
The European Union affirmed that the Israeli occupation authorities' storming of the headquarters of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem and carrying out demolition works there constitutes a serious attack on the UN agency and a violation of United Nations immunity.
The EU stated in a communiqué yesterday, Wednesday, that it "remains a strong supporter of the United Nations, of which UNRWA is a part," stressing its full commitment to the multilateral system, based on international law and the principles of the UN Charter.
It pointed out that the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations stipulates that UN premises must be protected and the inviolability of its buildings respected.
The EU added that "UN agencies are responsible for implementing these principles, and play a pivotal role in maintaining global security, protecting, and realizing fundamental human rights," expressing its commitment to continue its political and financial support for UNRWA, which is an important entity in providing humanitarian aid, education, and health services in the occupied Palestinian territories.
Roland Frederick, UNRWA's Director of Affairs in the West Bank, confirmed that the horrific scenes of UN buildings being demolished by bulldozers constitute the culmination of an escalating series of hostility and attacks against the UN agency in the occupied Palestinian territories over the past two years.
Mr. Frederick stated in a communiqué: "Another dark day for the United Nations in East Jerusalem has drawn to a close. Armed occupation security forces arrived at UNRWA's headquarters in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, and shortly thereafter, bulldozers forcibly entered the compound and immediately began demolishing buildings inside."
He pointed out that "These buildings are offices and warehouses constructed decades ago and maintained with generous donor support, having provided services to Palestine refugees in the occupied Palestinian territories for over seventy years."
The Israeli occupation had raided UNRWA's headquarters in Jerusalem last Tuesday and demolished some of its parts.
