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UNRWA reports seizure of Qalandia training center by Israeli forces
UNRWA officials report that Israeli forces have seized the Qalandia Vocational Training Center, marking the loss of the agency's last major institution in East Jerusalem. The center, which has provided vocational training to Palestinian refugees since 1952, was raided by Israeli forces, resulting in the detention of approximately 40 employees.
While Israeli forces have since withdrawn from the interior of the building, local officials and UNRWA state that effective control remains with Israel. Reports indicate that doors have been welded shut, surveillance cameras have been installed, and Jerusalem municipality workers continue to perform maintenance inside the facility. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was present during the initial raid, expressing opposition to the agency's presence in the region.
The seizure follows a period of increased pressure on UNRWA, including the closure of six schools and two health centers, as well as the destruction of the agency's headquarters in Sheikh Jarrah. UNRWA has condemned these actions as violations of international law and maintains its commitment to resuming educational activities at the center.
Entities
Israel · Itamar Ben-Gvir · Omar Al-Rajoub · Omar Rajoub · Qalandia Vocational Training Center · Roland Frick · UNRWA
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Qalandia center provides vocational training to 340 young refugees annually. paltimeps.ps
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Israel has closed six schools and two health centers and destroyed the UNRWA headquarters in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood. paltimeps.ps
- [● 3 SOURCES] Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated there is no place for UNRWA in Jerusalem or Israel. almanar.com.lb · palsawa.com · www.alaraby.co.uk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Israel seized the Qalandia Vocational Training Center, which is UNRWA's last major institution in Jerusalem. paltimeps.ps
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Unemployment rates in the West Bank have risen above 30% since October 7, 2023. paltimeps.ps
- [● 2 SOURCES] The withdrawal of Israeli military forces does not signify the end of effective Israeli control over the center. palsawa.com · www.alaraby.co.uk
- [● 4 SOURCES] The Qalandia Vocational Training Center has been in operation since 1952. paltimeps.ps · almanar.com.lb · palsawa.com · www.alaraby.co.uk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Israeli forces detained approximately 40 UNRWA employees during the raid for investigation. almanar.com.lb