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In a statement issued by his spokesman, the Secretary-General said the decision to use the Sheikh Jarrah compound of the UN agency assisting Palestinian refugees for military purposes represented “a violation of the inviolability of the premises of the UN” and undermine the agency’s mandate in the occupied Palestinian territories.
“The Secretary General strongly condemns the Israeli government’s decision to establish military facilities in UNRWA Sheikh Jarrah Complex in East Jerusalem,” was confiscated in January, the statement said.
“This action, as confirmed by International Court of Justice (ICJ), breaking the law. The State of Israel is has no right to exercise sovereign power in any part of the occupied Palestinian territories and is obliged to end its unlawful presence…as quickly as possible.”
Guterres also stressed that “UNRWA is an integral part of the UN” and the complex “remains a UN location.”
The Secretary General urged Israel to immediately change course and hand over the complex back to the UN.
Situation in Gaza
Meanwhile in Gaza, the UN aid coordination office Ocha warned that ongoing Israeli attacks hit residential areas and temporary shelters housing refugee families.
On Monday, a airstrikes hit Camp Jabalya in northern Gaza, destroying tents and tarpaulins housing around 30 families. Humanitarian teams are assessing needs and working to provide emergency assistance.
“We reiterate that civilians and civilian facilities must be protected at all times,” UN Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric told reporters at his regular midday briefing in New York.
Access the challenge
Aid agencies also reported persistent obstacles to humanitarian movements in areas where the Israeli government required prior coordination.
According to OCHA, one humanitarian convoy was delayed for about an hour at an Israeli holding point, while another mission transporting refrigerated supplies had to be canceled due to delays in reaching the Kerem Shalom crossing.
A separate mission was abandoned after the specified route became impassable.
“These obstacles make it difficult for aid groups to provide critical aid and supplies to communities,” Dujarric said.
Relief efforts
Despite the challenges, humanitarian partners continue to increase their assistance.
United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has brought about 2,500 more durable temporary housing units in Gaza since Januarywith more than half already installed for use as homes, clinics and classrooms.
The UN estimates there are several 900,000 people across Gaza urgently need housing assistance and durable housing solutions.
Institutions and partners also support the daily production of around 130,000 packs of bread which are distributed free of charge through shelters and community centers and sold at subsidized prices in around 170 shops across the enclave.
