Israel Cuts Power and Water to UN Refugee Agency in Jerusalem

Israeli authorities have ordered the disconnection of utilities to buildings run by the UN's refugee agency in occupied East Jerusalem. The Jerusalem governorate, a Palestinian Authority body, announced the move on Tuesday. Notices were issued to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The orders target several agency facilities, demanding a cut-off of electricity and water supplies. UNRWA provides critical aid and services to Palestinian refugees across the region. Its operations in Gaza have been a major focus during the recent war. The Israeli action in Jerusalem significantly escalates pressure on the agency. Earlier this year, Israel accused several UNRWA staff members of participating in the October 7 attacks. This led many major donor countries to suspend funding. UNRWA has not yet issued a public statement regarding the utility disconnection orders in Jerusalem. The agency has previously called for funding to be restored to avoid a humanitarian collapse in Gaza.