Israel's Controversial Defense Compound Plan Stirs International Debate

On Sunday, Israel's cabinet gave the green light for constructing a defense compound on the former premises of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency in East Jerusalem. This contentious decision follows the demolition of the site in January, which the UN condemned as a breach of international law.

The proposed compound, backed by the Defence Ministry and the Jerusalem Municipality, will feature a military museum, military recruitment office, and office of the defense minister. Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized the decision's importance, citing sovereignty, Zionism, and security as its pillars.

The UN agency, accused of bias by Israeli officials, has not operated from the site since it was ordered to vacate last year. While UNRWA has dismissed some staff, it refutes Israeli claims of Hamas ties, marking the move as part of a broader disinformation campaign against the agency.

(With inputs from agencies.)