Norway has announced an additional contribution of 125 million Norwegian kroner, equivalent to $13.2 million, in aid for Palestine, channeling the funds through the United Nations and the World Bank. This aid package is aimed at supporting the Palestinian public sector amidst ongoing challenges arising from the Gaza conflict.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide emphasized the persistent need for international assistance, highlighting issues such as limited access to food, clean water, electricity, and healthcare in the region. Eide called for expedited early-recovery initiatives and enhanced humanitarian access, stressing the importance of implementing a 20-point peace plan adopted by the UN Security Council.
The Norwegian government has also reiterated its stance against Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank, noting that such expansions, coupled with settler attacks and restrictions on Palestinian movement, escalate insecurity and complicate political resolution efforts.
In addition to the new aid, Norway is allocating approximately 1 billion Norwegian kroner in total assistance to Palestine for the current year. Eide advocated for Palestinians to lead the reconstruction initiatives, ensuring their active participation in rebuilding efforts.