AMMAN
On 5 December, Israeli Security Forces forcibly entered the premises of an UNRWA girls’ school in the Bethlehem area of the West Bank. They also attempted to forcibly enter an UNRWA boys’ school nearby. The integrity of the schools was further compromised during clashes between Israeli Security Forces inside the school and Palestinians outside.
As a result, one Palestine refugee man was killed by live ammunition and several others were injured in front of the UNRWA girls’ school. Education services in the area were stopped for the day to protect the safety and security of Palestine refugee children.
UNRWA protested to the relevant Israeli authorities over the breach of its installation. UNRWA issued a separate protest to the Palestinian authorities for throwing of stones and ammunition liquid into UNRWA premises. The Agency is currently repairing the damage to the school.
UNRWA reiterates its call on all parties to respect the neutrality and inviolability of United Nations premises at all times. Breaches of this inviolability are not only very serious violations of UN privileges and immunities, they can also impede the ability of UNRWA to deliver services to Palestine refugees, placing refugees and staff at risk.
Document Sources: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Subject: Bethlehem, Children, Education and culture, Human rights and international humanitarian law, Incidents, Security issues, West Bank
Publication Date: 12/12/2022
URL source: https://www.unrwa.org/newsroom/official-statements/failure-respect-unrwa-neutrality-and-inviolability-schools-west-bank