Bahrain, UN, EU officials condemn 'escalation' of violence against UNRWA

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain yesterday vehemently denounced the assault perpetrated by extremist Israeli settlers against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) headquarters in Jerusalem.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated Bahrain's urgent appeal to the international community, urging swift action to uphold the principles of international law, international humanitarian law, and resolutions of international legitimacy.

These measures are essential for safeguarding civilians, as well as the premises and personnel of international and humanitarian organizations dedicated to providing essential aid to the Palestinian population, particularly in the Gaza Strip. The attack was also condemned by United Nations and European officials yesterday.

"I condemn the recent attack on UNRWA Headquarters in East Jerusalem. Targeting aid workers and humanitarian assets is unacceptable, and must stop," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on X, formerly Twitter, referring to Thursday's attack. Earlier Germany's foreign ministry called out the "escalation of violent protest" and said on X that "Israel must ensure the protection of UN facilities and personnel in the occupied Palestinian territories".

"The UN need to be able to serve their important mandate in Gaza, the West Bank and east Jerusalem," the ministry added. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the bloc also "strongly condemns the attack". "It is Israel's responsibility to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers.

UNRWA is an irreplaceable lifeline to millions in Gaza and the region," he said in a post on X.