Ramallah:The Palestinian Cabinet has issued a warning regarding the severe humanitarian consequences of recent decisions by several international relief organizations to either reduce or suspend their operations in Gaza. The World Food Programme's announcement to halt assistance to thousands of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip due to funding shortages is particularly concerning, as it threatens the continuity of relief efforts and could exacerbate the suffering of vulnerable groups.
According to Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA – English, the Minister of Social Development met with World Food Programme Acting Executive Director Carl Skau to discuss the risks associated with suspending aid. Efforts are being made to mobilize sufficient funding to address the needs of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
The Cabinet has called on the United Nations and donor countries to ensure the continuation of assistance by providing necessary funding and applying pressure on Israeli authorities to allow the free flow of humanitarian supplies. It also urged Arab and Islamic countries, along with the international community, to offer immediate financial and relief support to ease the suffering in Gaza.
Additionally, the Cabinet received a report on efforts to provide shelter and debris removal in Gaza, including preparing shelters for displaced individuals, distributing tents to farmers, and rehabilitating damaged housing units. Repair work on additional housing units is ongoing in cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
In another development, the Cabinet expressed concern over escalating attacks by Israeli forces and settlers during the olive harvest season. It was reported that over 350 attacks have occurred, targeting Palestinians and their supporters. Despite these challenges, about 50% of the olive harvest has been completed.
The Cabinet directed authorities to strengthen oversight of the olive oil market and commended teams working to protect public health and safety. Financially, the Cabinet is addressing the withholding of Palestinian clearance revenues by Israel, which significantly impacts public revenue. Efforts are underway to secure salary payments for public employees.
Furthermore, recommendations to address challenges in the transport sector and steps to reduce operating costs were adopted. The Cabinet also discussed a draft amendment on investment incentives for renewable energy technologies, aiming to increase clean energy reliance to 30% by 2030.