After enduring weeks of attacks, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees has made the decision to temporarily close its East Jerusalem headquarters.
UNRWA HQ in East Jerusalem Attacked Twice
Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the agency, said that the perimeter of the Unrwa headquarters in occupied East Jerusalem had been set on fire twice by Israeli residents. He noted that this was the second strike on the compound within days.
Personnel from the Unrwa and other UN agencies were present at the compound, which includes petrol and diesel stations for a fleet of UN vehicles.
According to Lazzarini, the fire resulted in significant damage to the outdoor areas, but fortunately, no staff members were harmed. He also mentioned that the Unrwa staff successfully extinguished the fire.
Based on the speaker, the attack occurred following a series of protests by certain groups outside the Unrwa compound.
During a recent protest, the situation escalated as some individuals resorted to throwing stones at UN staff and the surrounding buildings The Guardian reported..
Alleged Aid Theft, Repression in Gaza Aid Efforts
Meanwhile, a recent report by a United Nations watchdog group has raised serious allegations against the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
The report suggests that there may have been misappropriation of aid intended for the Gaza Strip, which has caused concern among many.
One of the claims made by the employees was that aid was being stolen and hoarded by the leadership and employees.
UNWatch reported that the employees claim that they repeatedly raised their concerns to the higher-ups, only to be disregarded. Yet another claim of theft and reprisal has emerged in the case involving baby pampers.
A staff member expressed their astonishment at the distribution of 150 bags during the night, and the unfortunate fact that some displaced individuals did not receive their fair share. Additionally, it seems that anyone who speaks up is being relocated.
Another incident involved an employee who shared that their school experienced a prolonged power outage due to repeated theft of fuel.
Despite the thief being apprehended, the principal chose not to take any action. There were allegations of individuals taking food and selling it for personal gain.
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