UNRWA chief says more than 50 staff have been arrested and mistreated by Israel, accusing inhumane treatment

Philippe Lazzarini, the head of UNRWA, said more than 50 of the agency's staff have been arrested and mistreated by Israel since the start of the Gaza conflict, describing the abuses as shocking. Although Israel has banned UNRWA from operating on its territory, Lazzarini emphasized that employees have been subjected to violence, humiliation and threats. The allegations come in the context of hearings at the International Court of Justice, where Israel's humanitarian obligations towards Palestinians are being discussed. Israel has not commented on the charges, but has denounced "systematic persecution" against it.