Israeli police, backed by the IDF and Jerusalem municipal authorities, took control of a UNRWA compound in Kafr Aqab, north of Jerusalem today, beginning the evacuation of the UN agency from the site.
Israeli authorities said the operation is intended to enforce legislation restricting UNRWA’s activities and clear the compound ahead of planned municipal work, following weeks of preparations involving police, military and city officials.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir welcomed the operation, describing it as an assertion of Israeli sovereignty in Jerusalem: Those who participated in the events of October 7th will no longer enjoy immunity. Making history! This morning, we are beginning the process of evacuating UNRWA from Kfar Akab. This morning, large forces of the Israeli Police are working with relevant authorities to implement the law and remove UNRWA from the premises. An organization whose employees were involved in terrorism and which has repeatedly served as a cover for Hamas has no right to exist for even one more second, and has no place in Jerusalem or in the State of Israel. My policy is clear: sovereignty is not declared, it is acted upon. The Israeli Police will continue to act decisively to enforce the law, strengthen governance, and make it clear: Jerusalem is the capital of the State of Israel, and it will remain so. And anyone who establishes terrorist nests there will be removed.
Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs: A community and educational center will be established for the residents of the Kafr Aqab neighborhood in northern Jerusalem, in place of the UNRWA compound that was situated on land owned by KKL since 1937. An investment of 40 million shekels will be made to build schools, sports facilities, and a mosque at the site.
