Ramallah: The Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) stated that the Palestinian leadership will undertake significant political, legal, and diplomatic measures in response to ongoing Israeli policies. This decision aims to develop a comprehensive national plan to address upcoming challenges and safeguard the interests of the Palestinian people.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the announcement was made during a committee meeting at the PLO headquarters in Ramallah, led by Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh. The meeting focused on various political and national issues, specifically addressing Israel's recent classification of West Bank lands as 'state land.' The committee condemned this as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability.
The committee argued that this decision marks the beginning of the annexation of occupied Palestinian territories and an end to existing agreements. It called for a strong Arab and international response to pressure Israel into reversing its policies.
The committee also criticized a recent announcement from the United States Embassy in Israel about providing consular services in West Bank settlements, viewing this as an effort to legitimize settlements, which are considered illegal under international law and UN Security Council Resolution 2334. Additionally, the committee responded to statements from US ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, concerning biblical claims over the region, urging the US administration to clarify its stance.
Further discussions included the situation in the Gaza Strip, with the committee citing ongoing Israeli ceasefire violations, continued violence, displacement, and aid entry delays. It urged the immediate implementation of the US-backed plan and UN Security Council Resolution 2803, advocating for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and subsequent reconstruction efforts in coordination with the Palestinian government.
The committee highlighted the impact of Israel's withholding of Palestinian clearance revenues, noting how it hinders the Palestinian government's capacity to fulfill its obligations. It also addressed Israeli military actions in West Bank cities and restrictions on worshippers at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, especially during Ramadan.
Additionally, the committee welcomed preparations for local council elections in April, emphasizing the importance of their successful execution. It concluded by commending the resilience of the Palestinian people and reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful popular resistance against Israeli policies.