Gaza: Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa held a significant meeting in his office with international partners from the European Union, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the Office of the Quartet. The central theme of this gathering was the resumption of basic services in the Gaza Strip and the implementation of practical on-ground interventions.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, discussions also revolved around the broader financial landscape and the impact of Israel's financial measures. The meeting highlighted Palestinian priorities and areas requiring international support, with participants including key ministers from various sectors such as Finance, Telecommunications, Civil Affairs, Water Authority, Energy Authority, and Monetary Authority.
Prime Minister Mustafa emphasized the need for effective international pressure on Israel to cease its actions in Gaza and achieve a sustainable ceasefire. This, he noted, would enable steps toward reconstruction, starting with the restoration of essential services and preparations for a Gaza reconstruction conference, alongside the mobilization of necessary financial support.
The Prime Minister also addressed the severe fiscal challenges posed by Israel's financial blockade, particularly the illegal deductions from Palestinian tax revenues. These deductions have strained the Palestinian Government's ability to meet its obligations. Mustafa called for increased international pressure to end these unlawful practices and release withheld Palestinian funds.
International partners at the meeting voiced their support for establishing a ceasefire in Gaza and backed the Palestinian government's efforts to restore basic services. They also committed to applying pressure on Israel to cease its deductions from Palestinian tax revenues.
