‘Terror tunnel’ found under UN agency HQ – Israel — RT World News

The Israeli army said it discovered a Hamas tunnel and a secret data center under the evacuated headquarters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Gaza City.

According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the shaft leads underground “Terror Tunnel” It was located near a UN-sponsored school. The tunnel was half a mile long and 60 feet deep “Under the building that is the main headquarters of UNRWA in the Gaza Strip” According to what was stated in a statement by the Israeli army, on Saturday.

The underground complex served as “An important asset for Hamas’ military intelligence.” The Israeli army added that “UNRWA facilities supplied the tunnel with electricity.”

The Israeli army said as well “big quantities” Weapons, including rifles and grenades, were found at the UNRWA main office.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini responded to these allegations by saying that the agency “I do not know what is under its headquarters in Gaza.” He added that the United Nations employees were evacuated on October 12, and that was the case “Unable to confirm or otherwise comment” On the accusations made by Israel.

“UNRWA is a human development and humanitarian organization that does not have military and security expertise nor the ability to conduct military inspections of what is or may be under its buildings.” Lazzarini wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz rejected Lazzarini's explanations 'An insult to common sense' He urged him “Immediate resignation.”

The United Nations agency charged with helping Palestinians in Gaza has come under scrutiny in recent weeks after Israel accused several of its employees of helping Hamas carry out its deadly October 7 attack on Israeli cities. The United Nations expelled nine of its employees concerned and opened an investigation into the matter. These allegations prompted several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, to suspend funding for UNRWA.

The United Nations is increasingly calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and warning that the ongoing Israeli offensive is creating a humanitarian situation “catastrophe” In the Palestinian enclave. The Jewish state confirmed that it was doing everything in its power to reduce the number of civilian deaths and accused Hamas of using civilians as human shields.