The United Kingdom has joined ten other countries in strongly condemning Israel’s demolition of the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Norway, Portugal, Spain and the UK said the demolition took place on 20 January 2026.

 “This unprecedented act against a United Nations agency by a UN Member State marks the latest unacceptable move to undermine their ability to operate,” the ministers said.

 “We urge the Government of Israel to abide by its international obligations to ensure the protection and inviolability of United Nations premises in accordance with the provisions of the UN General Convention (1946) and the Charter,” the statement said.

They called upon the Government of Israel to halt all demolitions, reiterating their “full support for UNRWA’s indispensable mission to provide essential services and humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem.”

They stressed that UNRWA delivers healthcare and education to millions of Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, and “must be able to operate without restrictions.”

Turning to Gaza, the ministers recalled Israel’s commitments under President Trump’s 20-Point Plan: “Israel agreed to President Trump’s 20-Point Plan, which committed to the entry and distribution of aid into Gaza, led by the UN and Red Crescent and without interference.”

They added that “despite the increase in aid entering Gaza, conditions remain dire and supply is inadequate for the needs of the population.”

The ministers outlined urgent demands, including “the expanded, safe and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid,” the reopening of all crossings, “including the announced plans to re-open the Rafah crossing in both directions,” and lifting restrictions on so-called “dual use” items.

They also called on Israel to ensure international NGOs can operate freely in Gaza and the West Bank.