The Palestinian Embassy in Nicosia has condemned what it described as the entry and seizure of UNRWA’s Qalandia Vocational Training Centre by Israeli forces. It said the operation violated international law and United Nations privileges, calling for international protection of the agency, its facilities and staff.
Embassy points to diplomatic visit
In a statement, the embassy said it was “particularly provocative” that the operation took place just one day after foreign ambassadors and diplomats visited the centre.
The facility has operated continuously since 1953 and is described by the embassy as one of the most important educational and vocational institutions serving Palestinian refugees.
“The unlawful evacuation and seizure constitute a flagrant violation of international law, the immunities and privileges of the United Nations, and a direct attack on UNRWA and international legitimacy,” the statement said.
Four Palestinians reportedly wounded
According to the embassy, Israeli forces opened fire on Palestinian civilians during the operation, wounding four young men with live ammunition.
It also said Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir took part in the operation and was shown sitting at a UN desk inside the building.
The embassy described the image as “not only an affront to the United Nations, but also a symbolic act of contempt for international law and the entire international community”.
Call for international action
The embassy called on the international community and the United Nations to take “immediate and effective measures” to protect UNRWA, its facilities and staff, and to end what it described as continuing Israeli violations of international law.
Source: CNA
