Ramallah: Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa met with a delegation from the European Union Police and Rule of Law Support Mission for the Palestinian Territories (EUPOL COPPS) and the European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing (EUBAM Rafah), accompanied by Minister of Interior Major General Ziad Hab Al-Reeh and Deputy EU Representative to Palestine James Rizzo.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the discussions centered on the field and political developments affecting the region, particularly the situation at the Rafah crossing. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by Israeli-imposed obstacles and restrictions on movement, emphasizing the urgent need for facilitating travel for patients, the wounded, and humanitarian cases from the Gaza Strip. The return of citizens to the Strip was also a focus of concern.
Prime Minister Mustafa stressed the need for joint efforts and increased international pressure to ensure the Rafah crossing operates more regularly and effectively, accommodating the rising humanitarian needs. He highlighted the significance of implementing international initiatives related to the Gaza Strip, notably President Trump's initiative, in a comprehensive manner. Mustafa asserted that arrangements should be temporary and transitional, ultimately leading to the Palestinian government's full assumption of responsibilities in Gaza within a unified framework.
The unity of Palestinian institutions and their presence across all territories was emphasized as essential for achieving stability and preventing fragmentation or prolonged temporary solutions. Mustafa also addressed the impact of escalating settler attacks, Israeli checkpoints, closures, and the withholding of Palestinian tax revenues on the region's economic and humanitarian situation.
The European delegation briefed on the EU missions' activities and strategic plans, supporting the Palestinian Authority for two decades. Discussions included enhancing police and rule of law institutions' performance, contributing to stability and public order, and strengthening Palestinian institutions' capacity to address challenges with professionalism and discipline.
Furthermore, the development of training programs and capacity-building for police forces were discussed, aligning with Palestinian government priorities and needs. This aims to enhance institutional readiness to fulfill duties within the approved legal and institutional frameworks, including in the Gaza Strip.
