The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East has firmly rejected Israeli claims to ownership of its headquarters in eastern Jerusalem, calling the assertions 'false and illegal.' UNRWA Commissioner‑General Philippe Lazzarini stated that the agency has leased the land from the Jordanian government since 1952 and accused Israel of seizing the property in violation of international law. He cited rulings from both the International Court of Justice and the United Nations General Assembly, which have declared Israel's presence in eastern Jerusalem unlawful.

The dispute escalated after Israeli authorities demolished several buildings within the UNRWA compound and passed legislation banning the agency's operations in the country. UNRWA has faced longstanding criticism over alleged ties to Hamas, with recent Israeli claims that some staff participated in the October 2023 attacks. A United Nations review group found neutrality-related issues within UNRWA but said Israel had not provided evidence that a significant number of staff were members of terrorist organizations.

Despite these controversies, the International Court of Justice has ordered Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza through United Nations agencies, including UNRWA, a decision criticized by both Israel and the United States. The situation remains tense, with international condemnation of Israel's actions and ongoing disputes over the agency's role and staff conduct.