Cairo: Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa declared the ongoing situation in Gaza a “full-fledged war crime and failure of humanity” during his speech at the Cairo Conference to Strengthen Humanitarian Response in Gaza. Mustafa highlighted the severe devastation in Gaza, which has been subjected to what he describes as a genocidal war for over 14 months. Infrastructure damage has reached over 80%, severely impacting hospitals, schools, and essential utilities, while epidemics continue to spread amid a dire lack of electricity, water, and fuel.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, Mustafa addressed the Cairo Ministerial Conference, emphasizing the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. He characterized the crisis as a deliberate starvation campaign, not due to a shortage of aid but because humanitarian efforts are consistently obstructed. He called for immediate international action to alleviate the humanitarian disaster in Gaza, urging the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2735 to
halt aggression and facilitate aid delivery.
Mustafa stressed that the conference is a crucial platform for rejecting the occupation and closure of Gaza’s borders. He reiterated the importance of restoring basic services and initiating recovery and reconstruction efforts with international backing. He also highlighted the irreplaceable role of UNRWA in supporting Palestinian refugees, calling for the rejection of Israeli laws targeting the agency and expressing gratitude to Egypt and Jordan for their support.
In his address, Mustafa thanked Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the Egyptian people for hosting the conference, as well as UN Secretary-General António Guterres and other international representatives for their efforts. Despite challenging conditions, the Palestinian Government remains committed to supporting the Gaza Strip through essential services and coordinated humanitarian relief.
Mustafa outlined the Government’s plans for Gaza’s recovery, emphasizing economic revitalization and rec
onstruction in partnership with international bodies like the World Bank, the UN, and the EU. He proposed the establishment of an independent body to oversee reconstruction efforts and the creation of a financial trust fund to channel donor support.
Furthermore, Mustafa discussed plans to bolster Palestine’s national economy by promoting sustainable growth and investment, ultimately reducing reliance on international aid. He also stressed the importance of legislative and administrative reforms to enhance public institutions, ensure efficient service delivery, and support the rule of law.
In closing, Mustafa highlighted the significance of international partnership and humanitarian support as vital investments in the resilience and future of the Palestinian people, sending a message of hope and solidarity from the global community.