Rising Tensions in Jerusalem as Israeli Lawmakers Storm UNRWA HQ Amidst Gaza Aid Crisis

Tensions escalated dramatically in occupied East Jerusalem as right-wing Israeli lawmakers, including Knesset member Yulia Malinovsky, stormed the headquarters of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), Anadolu Agency reported.

Malinovsky declared the building “liberated” and asserted UNRWA’s permanent removal, linking the action to the anniversary of Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem. This raid follows Israeli legislation passed in October 2024, banning UNRWA’s operations in Palestinian territories and stripping it of privileges, with these laws taking effect in January. Israel accuses some UNRWA employees of involvement in the October 2023 Hamas attack, allegations the UN agency vehemently denies while reaffirming its neutrality and humanitarian mission.

This incident unfolds as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with the World Health Organization (WHO) warning of critical medical supply depletion. According to WHO officials, nearly half of essential medicines, including painkillers and antibiotics, are at “zero-stock levels,” alongside significant shortages in medical supplies and vaccines. Patients with chronic and life-threatening conditions are particularly vulnerable. Fifty-one WHO trucks laden with life-saving materials remain awaiting approval to enter Gaza, exacerbating a situation where surgeons lack basic equipment, anesthesia, and sterilization facilities. The WHO emphasized the dire state for patients with chronic illnesses like hypertension and diabetes, who are struggling to access basic medications amidst the ongoing Israeli offensive.