UN Chief Threatens Hague Inquiry Over UNRWA Headquarters Demolition in Occupied Jerusalem
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stern condemnation of Israel’s demolition of the UNRWA headquarters in occupied Jerusalem, warning that the action could escalate into a legal dispute at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague. The move marks a significant diplomatic escalation following the destruction of the vital humanitarian facility.
### Condemnation and Legal Implications
In a strongly worded letter dated February 12, 2026, addressed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Secretary-General Guterres unequivocally stated that Israeli authorities had seized the complex without UN consent, an act he categorized as a direct violation of international law. He emphasized that the site, which has served as an official UN headquarters since 1952, enjoys legal protection and immunity under international conventions. The Secretary-General highlighted Israel’s obligation, under the UN Charter and the 1946 Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, to safeguard UN property and ensure the security of its personnel.
### Destruction of a Critical Humanitarian Hub
Reports indicate that Israeli forces utilized heavy equipment to enter the Sheikh Jarrah complex, which served as the primary logistical center for UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) operations in Palestinian territories. A significant portion of the buildings, including administrative offices, warehouses, workshops, and material storage facilities, were demolished. This destruction severely impacts UNRWA’s capacity to deliver essential services to Palestinian refugees.
### Escalating Pressure and Prior Incidents
Guterres warned that if Israel fails to adhere to its international commitments, the matter would be referred to the International Court of Justice. This warning comes amidst a pattern of actions affecting UNRWA facilities. The Secretary-General’s letter noted that even before the full demolition, Israeli officials had entered an UNRWA medical center in Jerusalem on January 12 and 13, ordering its temporary closure. Furthermore, other UNRWA centers in East Jerusalem reportedly received notices threatening operational cessation and cuts to vital utilities such as water and electricity. An example cited was the UNRWA training center in Qalandia, where a power cut on January 28 halted technical training for over 300 Palestinian trainees.
### Unyielding Stance on International Law
The Secretary-General underscored that UNRWA’s legal framework remains robust and valid, asserting that any alterations in Israel’s domestic laws cannot override its international obligations concerning the agency’s status and operations. To ensure broader awareness and seek a resolution, Guterres dispatched copies of his letter to the President of the General Assembly and the President of the Security Council, urging dialogue to address the unfolding crisis.
