Israel to build IDF museum at ex-UNRWA HQ
The Israeli government on May 17 approved plans to build an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) museum, a recruitment office and an office for the defense minister on the former site of the U.N. agency for Palestinians in Jerusalem.
In a joint statement, the Defense Ministry and the Jerusalem Municipality said the development will cover about 36 dunams (roughly 9 acres) and is designed to reinforce the presence of Israel’s defense institutions.
Defense Minister Israel Katz described the decision as “an act of sovereignty, Zionism and security,” saying there is “nothing more symbolic or just” than establishing defense institutions on the remains of the former UNRWA compound, which he accused of being linked to Hamas-related activities.
Israel began demolishing the former UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem in January, following a series of legislative steps targeting the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, which Israeli authorities have long accused of ties to Hamas and involvement in militant activity, including the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks.
