UN Medical Center Faces Forced Closure in East Jerusalem Amid Rising Ignorance of International Law

UN Health Center Temporarily Closes

The temporary closure of a United Nations-operated medical center in East Jerusalem marks the latest stage in a "deliberate pattern of ignoring" international law, according to the head of the UN agency assisting Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

Israeli forces raided the UNRWA-operated health center on Monday, ordering its closure for 30 days. They also mandated the removal of UN signs. Furthermore, plans are in place to cut off water and electricity supplies to several UNRWA facilities in the coming weeks, impacting schools, health centers, and other essential buildings.

Legislative Campaign

This development signals "a new step in a deliberate pattern of ignoring international law and the United Nations," UNRWA's Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini stated on Twitter. "This is a direct result of legislation passed by the Israeli parliament in December, which has intensified existing anti-UNRWA laws adopted in 2024," he added.

UNRWA health centers serve hundreds of Palestinian refugee patients daily, said agency spokesman Jonathan Fowler to UN News. "For many of them, this is the only way to access primary healthcare. Thus, there is a right to health involved in this case." Fowler emphasized that UNRWA facilities are locations of the UN, which are protected under international law, applicable globally.

Anti-Humanitarian Gesture

Fowler described the imminent cessation of water and electricity as "somewhat of an anti-humanitarian gesture," adding that it is "truly shocking." He recalled that in October, the International Court of Justice had "crystal clear reiterated that the State of Israel is obligated under international law to facilitate UNRWA operations, not to hinder or prevent them. And yet, this continues." He warned of the broader potential consequences. "These actions are shameful. And it is very, very important to have global awareness about what is happening, as this goes far beyond East Jerusalem. This has global implications due to this pattern of ignoring international law."