Jordan condemns Israeli attempts to seize UNRWA headquarters, attacks on Lebanon

AMMAN — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday warned against Israel's attempts to seize the headquarters of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), condemning it as a serious violation of international law and the UN Charter.

The ministry denounced Israel’s efforts to obstruct UNRWA’s operations in the occupied Palestinian territories and its systematic incitement against the agency, according to a ministry statement.  

The ministry also described these actions as a “blatant” breach of the immunities and privileges granted to UN organisations operating under international law in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Ministry spokesperson said that Israel's actions are in clear violation of international law, UN Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2334, and Israel’s obligations as an occupying power.

The official also said that these measures are part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to solidify its occupation and tighten control over Palestinian territories.

The spokesperson stressed that targeting UNRWA is an attack on the immunity of UN institutions, citing Resolution 2730, which mandates the protection of UN entities and humanitarian workers.

The official also warned of the catastrophic consequences of Israel's continued actions, which aim to politically undermine UNRWA and obstruct its mission to provide essential humanitarian aid to Palestinians, particularly amid the deteriorating conditions caused by Israel's aggression in Gaza and the West Bank.

The spokesperson also stressed the importance of sustained international political and financial support for UNRWA, to ensure the agency can continue fulfilling its mandate and delivering critical services to Palestinian refugees across its five areas of operation.

Also on Friday, the Foreign Ministry condemned Israel's attack on a Lebanese army base in the town of Kfara, southern Lebanon, which resulted in the death of two Lebanese soldiers and left others injured, stressing that the attack is a "blatant" violation of international law and a severe breach of Lebanese sovereignty, according to a ministry statement.  

The spokesperson reiterated Jordan's firm rejection and condemnation of the Israeli aggression, warning that such escalations could potentially drive the region towards a full-scale regional war.

The official stressed the urgent need for international intervention to stop Israel's ongoing aggression, highlighting the importance of fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701. 

The spokesperson also reiterated the Kingdom's steadfast solidarity with Lebanon in confronting these attacks, stressing the necessity of upholding international law.

He urged the international community to take a decisive stance to pressure Israel into ceasing its violations, expressing heartfelt condolences to Lebanon and the families of the victims, and wishing a swift recovery to those injured.