Thread by @jsoufi

🇺🇳 Press release : #UNRWA is deeply concerned about actions by parties to the conflict during recent hostilities in #Gaza that caused damage to its installations and violated its inviolability and neutrality. ⬇️

unrwa.org/newsroom/offic…

“With no advanced warning, between 13 and 15 May 2021, the Israeli Air Force conducted strikes causing damage to #UNRWA installations, including Zaitoun School. The inner compound yard was struck by two missiles despite being designated as an emergency shelter for civilians

The strike calls into question respect for the fundamental principle of inviolability. Thankfully, no displaced persons were inside the school at the time of the strike and no physical injuries were caused.

While investigating how to secure the building from the missiles, a detailed assessment on 31 May 2021 revealed what appears to be a possible tunnel, at the location of the missile strike. The depth of the cavity is approximately 7.5 meters below the surface of the school.

#UNRWA condemns the existence and potential use by Palestinian armed groups of such tunnels underneath its schools in the strongest possible terms. It is unacceptable that students and staff be placed at risk in such a way

#UNRWA calls for the parties to the conflict to act in accordance with international law. Letters of protest regarding this incident have been sent to both parties”.