UK, France, Canada Among 11 Countries Condemning Israel’s UNRWA Demolitions
Western and allied nations issue rare collective rebuke as Israel’s demolition of UNRWA’s East Jerusalem headquarters ignites global diplomatic controversy
On January 20, 2026, Israeli authorities demolished buildings belonging to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem’s Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood — a striking event that has drawn sharp international criticism and renewed tensions over humanitarian operations in the occupied Palestinian territories. In an uncommon diplomatic move, eleven countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and several European and Asian allies, issued a joint statement sharply condemning the action as an “unprecedented act” against a United Nations agency.
What Happened at the UNRWA Headquarters?
On January 20, Israeli forces — equipped with bulldozers and heavy machinery — entered the UNRWA compound in East Jerusalem and began dismantling structures that had long served as administrative and operational facilities for the agency. Officials involved have cited domestic legal changes to justify the action, pointing to legislation passed by the Knesset in October 2024 and reinforced in late 2025 that restricts UNRWA’s presence and operations in areas under Israeli control. Critics argue this constitutes a violation of international law and undermines UNRWA’s ability to serve vulnerable populations.
UNRWA itself condemned the demolition as a direct attack on a United Nations agency, noting that such sites are traditionally protected under international conventions. Philippe Lazzarini, the agency’s Commissioner‑General, stressed that UN premises must remain inviolable and that the demolitions jeopardize the humanitarian mission in the region.
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The International Condemnation: Eleven Nations Speak Out
In a joint statement issued on January 28, foreign ministers from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Norway, Portugal, Spain, and the United Kingdom expressed “strong condemnation” of the demolitions. They characterized the act as an unacceptable escalation against a UN entity and urged Israel to halt all demolitions immediately and respect its international obligations to protect UN premises.
The statement stressed that the demolitions could significantly undermine UNRWA’s ability to carry out its humanitarian work. UNRWA delivers essential services, including education, healthcare, and support to millions of Palestinian refugees, particularly in the Gaza Strip and West Bank. The countries emphasized that the agency must be able to operate without restrictions or interference.
In addition to diplomatic condemnation, the ministers called on Israel to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza and other occupied territories — a need underscored by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the enclave. Despite some increases in aid flows, conditions remain dire, and humanitarian leaders warn that supply is insufficient to meet basic needs. The joint statement highlighted that international law requires the occupying power to ensure the welfare of the civilian population under its control.
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Why This Matters: UNRWA’s Role and Legal Standing
UNRWA was established in 1949 to provide relief and essential services to Palestinian refugees. Over the decades, it has become a critical lifeline for millions of people across the Middle East, operating schools, clinics, and social support programs. Its mandates and facilities are generally protected under international agreements, including the United Nations Charter and the 1946 Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations.
The demolition of its headquarters in East Jerusalem — traditionally recognized as UN property — raises significant legal and diplomatic questions. The joint statement by the 11 countries specifically referred to obligations that Israel, as a UN Member State, must respect regarding the inviolability of UN premises.
Critics warn that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, undermining protections for international organizations in conflict zones and complicating broader efforts to support civilians caught in long‑running disputes.
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Broader Geopolitical Context
The condemnation comes against the backdrop of an extended conflict involving Israel and Palestinian territories, particularly the Gaza Strip. Ongoing hostilities have resulted in widespread destruction and humanitarian hardship. International actors — from governments to UN bodies — have repeatedly called for unobstructed access for aid organizations and respect for international humanitarian law.
The Israeli government has defended its actions, arguing that recent laws restrict UNRWA’s activities in areas under its jurisdiction and that the agency has been accused, without publicly released evidence, of ties to militant groups. These claims have been rejected by the UN and many member states, which argue that politicizing humanitarian missions only exacerbates suffering.
Additionally, the demolition has drawn criticism not only from the 11 Western and allied nations but also from other countries and regional players. For example, Egypt condemned the demolitions as a violation of international law and rights protections, reiterating its support for UNRWA’s mission and broader humanitarian efforts.
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Humanitarian Implications
The demolition of UNRWA facilities comes at a time when millions in Gaza and the West Bank face acute shortages of food, medicine, and basic services. UNRWA’s operations — from healthcare to education — have been instrumental in addressing these needs, and any disruption to its capacity directly affects vulnerable populations.
Humanitarian leaders argue that removing key institutional infrastructure and restricting movement or aid deliveries will worsen the crisis, particularly for children and displaced families who depend on UNRWA support. The 11 countries’ statement underscored the urgency of allowing aid to enter without hindrance and ensuring that international NGOs can operate freely.
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Looking Ahead: Diplomatic Pressure and International Law
While the joint statement does not outline direct punitive measures, it highlights a growing discomfort among key global players with actions perceived to breach international norms involving UN agencies. The collective rebuke reflects broader concerns about legal accountability, respect for humanitarian missions, and the future of diplomatic engagement in the region.
The issue is likely to remain a flashpoint in international relations, with potential repercussions for Israel’s diplomatic relations with Western and allied states. As the humanitarian situation evolves, pressure from global actors to uphold international law and protect civilian infrastructure and services could intensify.
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Conclusion
The united condemnation by the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and eight other countries of Israel’s demolition of the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem signifies an unusual diplomatic moment in the Israeli‑Palestinian conflict. By framing the action as an unprecedented violation of international norms and calling for immediate halting of demolitions and respect for UN obligations, these nations have underscored the importance of humanitarian protections and international law. The controversy brings renewed attention to the plight of Palestinian refugees and the role of international organizations amid ongoing conflict.
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