Gaza: Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa opened the Cabinet's weekly session by addressing the Palestinian people on a number of key national issues. The PM began the 121st weekly cabinet meeting with a speech focused on the ongoing political and economic challenges facing Palestine. He highlighted that the hardships experienced by the Palestinian people, especially in the Gaza Strip, are largely due to deliberate Israeli political objectives aimed at destabilizing Palestinian institutions.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Mustafa elaborated on the economic and financial crisis, emphasizing it is not a fleeting issue but rather part of a strategic effort to undermine national institutions. The crisis has led to liquidity shortages and limited essential services, creating instability and disorder. Mustafa stressed the importance of protecting national interests and mobilizing international support to combat these pressures.
PM Mustafa also addressed the accumulation of Israeli shekels and its impact on economic activities, revealing that the Cabinet has formed a Ministerial Committee to tackle this issue. The Committee, alongside the Palestinian Monetary Authority and the private sector, is working on immediate measures to mitigate the shekel liquidity crisis and developing long-term strategies for economic stability.
The speech also covered banking relations, with Mustafa expressing gratitude for international efforts that helped extend banking arrangements until the end of 2026. He emphasized the need for sustainable long-term banking solutions to ensure economic stability and continuity.
On the topic of Palestinian clearance revenues, Mustafa reviewed efforts to secure unlawfully withheld Palestinian tax and customs revenues by Israel. He called for greater international urgency in addressing this issue, highlighting the necessity of these funds for meeting Palestinian obligations.
Discussing the protection of public funds and state assets, Mustafa reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding resources and combating fraud. He outlined ongoing efforts, including a comprehensive financial settlement program that secured nearly NIS 3 billion in state financial claims and initiatives to address illegal water connections.
Mustafa also mentioned progress in land registration and state land protection, with measures in place to address encroachments and improve governance over customs quotas and tax exemptions. He highlighted advancements in the petroleum sector to prevent smuggling and enhance fuel supply efficiency.
Concluding his address, Mustafa reiterated the government's dedication to managing the current crisis while laying foundations for a stronger future. He emphasized the importance of protecting state institutions and public resources, strengthening governance, and ultimately achieving an independent Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital.