Statement by Minister McEntee on Israeli actions against UNRWA

Statement by Minister McEntee on Israeli actions against UNRWA

• From: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

• Published on: 23 January 2026
• Last updated on: 23 January 2026

I am appalled by the further destructive actions taken by Israeli authorities this week against UNRWA premises in East Jerusalem. These actions are not isolated incidents. They form part of a wider and sustained effort to undermine and dismantle UNRWA's operations across the occupied Palestinian territory.

Ireland fully supports UNRWA and its mandate. I call on Israel to immediately halt all attacks and measures directed at the Agency. Israel must respect international law, including the privileges and immunities of the United Nations and its staff.

At a time of immense and worsening humanitarian need, the work of UNRWA, alongside other UN agencies, humanitarian organisations and NGOs, is indispensable. These organisations are delivering life-saving assistance and essential services to civilians across the occupied Palestinian territory and the wider region. Any actions that obstruct this work only deepen the humanitarian crisis and place civilian lives at even greater risk.

International law is clear: humanitarian aid workers, along with journalists and medics, must be protected in times of conflict. It is unacceptable that they continue to be killed while trying to help others while carrying out their important roles.