Israel to Approve Army Museum on Former UNRWA HQ Ruins on Nakba Day

The Israeli government is expected to approve plans on May 17 to construct a military complex, including an army museum and recruitment office, on the ruins of the former UNRWA headquarters in occupied East Jerusalem. This date coincides with Israel's Jerusalem Day and the Palestinian Nakba Day. The project allocates approximately 36 dunams in the Ma'alot Dafna neighborhood to the Defence Ministry, aiming to entrench Israel's symbolic and military presence in the area. The site was partially demolished by Israeli authorities in January 2026, following legislation banning UNRWA operations in Israeli-controlled areas. Israel justified the demolition by claiming the site was abandoned and lacked diplomatic immunity, while accusing UNRWA staff of links to Hamas without providing verified evidence. The move has drawn sharp condemnation from the United Nations, the UK, France, and other European governments, who view it as a violation of international law protecting UN facilities. UN officials describe the action as part of a broader campaign to erase Palestinian refugee identity and undermine institutions tied to the right of return, setting a dangerous precedent for international organizations.