Israel has formally taken control of the UNRWA compound in Jerusalem’s Ma’alot Dafna neighborhood, enforcing a landmark law passed by the Knesset that bans the UN agency from operating within the country. The seizure was carried out by the Israel Land Authority with police support, marking a decisive step in ending UNRWA’s presence in the capital and returning the site to full state authority.

The action follows legislation approved in October 2024 prohibiting UNRWA activity in Israel and barring Israeli officials from maintaining contact with the agency. The law was enacted amid mounting evidence and allegations linking UNRWA personnel to Hamas, including involvement in the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks that left Israeli civilians brutally murdered and taken hostage. Israeli officials have repeatedly argued that UNRWA’s continued operations posed an unacceptable national security risk.

On January 20, 2026, the enforcement of the law moved from statute to action. Excavators entered the Ma’alot Dafna site as structures within the compound were dismantled, a moment captured in widely circulated photos and videos. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir publicly documented the operation, posting footage of himself standing in front of the compound as demolition work began, underscoring the government’s commitment to implementing the ban without delay.

According to Israeli authorities, the land is now being restored to state ownership and will be redeveloped for public use. Plans include preserving a historic building on the site while repurposing the surrounding area in a manner that serves Jerusalem residents and aligns with municipal planning priorities. Officials emphasized that the move is not symbolic but practical, aimed at ensuring sovereignty, transparency, and security in the city.

The seizure represents a broader policy shift by Israel toward confronting international bodies accused of undermining its security or neutrality obligations. Supporters of the move argue that reclaiming the UNRWA compound reinforces Israel’s right to enforce its laws within its capital and prevents further misuse of international platforms by entities tied to terrorism. As redevelopment plans move forward, the Ma’alot Dafna site stands as a clear signal that Israel intends to translate legislative authority into decisive action.