Israel bulldozes aid agency office in Gaza, says UNRWA chief : Valley Vision

Israeli bulldozers reportedly damaged a United Nations aid agency office in the Nur Shams refugee camp in Gaza, sparking concern from UN officials over the disregard for protected facilities in conflict zones. 

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) reported the incident on Thursday, with Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, confirming on social media platform X that “the office can no longer be used.” 

Lazzarini emphasised the recurring issue, stating, “Once again, United Nations facilities are being routinely disregarded while they must be protected at all times, including in times of conflict.”

Located east of Tulkarm city in the northern West Bank, the Nur Shams refugee camp was established in 1952 and is home to critical UNRWA-supported services. The camp includes two schools serving 1,571 students and a health center that offers primary care, including reproductive health, infant and child healthcare, immunisations, and routine medical check-ups.

However, the Israeli military has denied responsibility for the damage to the UNRWA office. Despite this, the incident occurs against a backdrop of legislative changes in Israel, as on Monday, the Israeli Knesset passed two laws prohibiting UNRWA from conducting “any activity” or providing essential support services to Palestinians across Israeli-occupied Gaza and the West Bank. 

Lazzarini responded to these legislative changes, describing the laws as a “dangerous precedent” that contravenes UN principles and Israel’s international obligations.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1949, UNRWA was created to assist Palestinian refugees displaced during the establishment of Israel.