Palestine Advocates for International Support at Middle East Humanitarian Conference in Italy

Pescara: Minister of National Economy Mohammad al-Amour represented the Palestinian Prime Minister at a special session on Palestine's situation during a humanitarian conference on the Middle East. The conference took place alongside the meeting of development ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations-Italy, the United States, Canada, Britain, Japan, Germany, and France. According to Maan News Agency, Minister Al-Amour highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians due to ongoing conflicts, which have resulted in over 42,000 casualties and more than 100,000 wounded. He criticized the international community for failing to halt the violence and facilitate humanitarian aid, despite evidence of war crimes, including the use of starvation as a weapon. Al-Amour detailed the extensive destruction of infrastructure and facilities and pointed to continuous attacks and violations in West Bank cities and villages. Al-Waziri further explained the exacerbation of Palestine's economic and social c hallenges since October 7, noting pre-existing economic distress caused by restrictive occupation policies. These include crossing closures, tax revenue confiscation, a Gaza Strip siege, control over Area C, and limitations on production, water, and energy resources, compounded by liquidity issues in Palestinian banks. The minister cited World Bank data indicating a 35% economic contraction in early 2024, the worst on record, with nearly total poverty in Gaza and widespread destruction of agricultural, educational, and health facilities. Minister Al-Amour outlined the Palestinian government's strategy to navigate these challenges, focusing on reunifying Gaza and the West Bank, achieving financial sustainability, fostering economic development, and reconstructing Gaza with international cooperation. He emphasized the necessity of financial and political backing from international partners, warning of a potential $1.9 billion financial deficit this year. He also called for the release of withheld Palestinian t ax funds by Israel. Concluding his address, Al-Amour urged participating nations to invest in Palestine not only economically but also in promoting peace and stability by recognizing the State of Palestine as a crucial step toward these goals.