Israeli forces raid UNRWA vocational centre in West Bank, order closure

Israel’s military forces entered a United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) vocational training centre in the occupied West Bank on Thursday, conducting a raid that culminated in an order for the facility to cease operations. The centre, which provides technical and trade skills to Palestinian youth, was sealed off after Israeli soldiers cited alleged security concerns, though UNRWA officials said the raid was unannounced and disrupted ongoing classes.

The closure adds to a series of recent restrictions imposed on UNRWA activities in the territory, raising concerns among humanitarian agencies about the continuity of essential services for vulnerable populations. UNRWA has announced plans to relocate affected programs and is seeking clarification from Israeli authorities regarding the legal basis for the shutdown. The agency emphasized its commitment to resume vocational training as soon as conditions permit, while monitoring the situation closely.