Ramallah: The Palestinian Cabinet has issued a stern warning regarding the swift and severe deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. This situation has been exacerbated by the deliberate reduction in the entry of essential food aid, along with restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities on the entry of fuel and medical supplies.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, the ongoing bombardment and forced displacement operations are compelling thousands of families to endure harsh conditions without basic necessities. These families are forced into overcrowded shelters that lack even the most fundamental standards of dignified living, creating catastrophic humanitarian and living conditions for most citizens of the Strip.
The Palestinian Cabinet has called upon the international community, the United Nations, and mediating and guarantor parties to take immediate action. They urge these entities to pressure the occupation authorities to fully and sustainably reopen the crossings, ensure the unrestricted entry of humanitarian and medical aid, and halt policies of starvation and forced displacement against the people of Gaza.
In the West Bank, there has been an alarming increase in settler violence, with 42 attacks over the past five days targeting 12 Palestinian villages. These incidents include arson, property vandalism, and the establishment of a new settlement outpost on Jurish lands, south of the Nablus Governorate.
Simultaneously, Israeli authorities have conducted five demolition operations affecting ten Palestinian structures, issued military orders to confiscate additional land, and threatened the citizens of Khan al-Ahmar with forced displacement and mass demolition. This is despite the international community's stance and the International Criminal Court's 2018 declaration that such displacement amounts to a war crime.
The Cabinet also made significant decisions regarding the energy sector, approving the formation of a founding Board of Directors for the National Fuel Company. This board is tasked with preparing the company's legal framework and financial statements, ensuring a separation from the Petroleum Authority's accounts.
In its 75th session, the Cabinet approved the establishment of a national petroleum company to promote investment, strengthen the energy sector, and diversify supply sources. Additionally, a draft bylaw on service fees for express mail transport and distribution licenses was discussed to regulate the sector and improve postal services.
Furthermore, the Cabinet adopted a recommendation from the Ministry of Women's Affairs to reassess the roles of gender units in government institutions. This reassessment aims to enhance the integration of gender issues into governmental plans, policies, and programs.