UN chief condemns Israeli raids on Unrwa schools in occupied East Jerusalem

UN secretary general Antonio Guterres has condemned Israel’s raids on schools operated by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa) in occupied East Jerusalem, calling them a violation of international law.

“The secretary-general condemns the breach of the inviolability of United Nations premises in occupied East Jerusalem, including the Unrwa training centre and the attempt to forcibly enter three Unrwa schools and seek their closure,” his spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, said at a press briefing.

Unrwa commissioner general Philippe Lazzarini said Israeli forces fired tear gas and sound bombs while 350 students and 30 staff members were inside.

“The use of tear gas and sound bombs in educational environments while students are learning is both unnecessary and unacceptable,” Dujarric added, stressing that Israel’s actions violate its legal obligations.

He also reiterated that “the inviolability of United Nations premises must be respected at all times”.