Norway has announced an additional aid package of 125 million Norwegian kroner ($13.2 million) aimed at supporting Palestine. The funds will be distributed through the United Nations and the World Bank, with a portion designated to bolster the Palestinian public sector. This announcement comes amidst ongoing challenges in the region, including the aftermath of the Gaza conflict and limited access to essential resources such as food, clean water, electricity, and healthcare.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide highlighted the persistent need for international assistance and emphasized the importance of accelerating early-recovery efforts and improving humanitarian access. He also called for the adoption of a 20-point peace plan by the UN Security Council and stressed that Palestinians should take a central role in the reconstruction process.
In addition to providing financial support, Norway reiterated its opposition to Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank. The Norwegian government expressed concerns that the expansion of settlements, along with settler attacks and restrictions on Palestinian movement, are exacerbating insecurity and hindering efforts to achieve a political resolution.
Overall, Norway’s total assistance to Palestine for the year is projected to be around 1 billion Norwegian kroner. This commitment underscores Norway’s ongoing support for Palestinian development and its advocacy for a sustainable peace process in the region.