Norway has committed an additional 125 million Norwegian kroner, equivalent to $13.2 million, in aid to Palestine, focusing on supporting the Palestinian public sector through the United Nations and World Bank. This announcement was made by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, who highlighted the persistent need for international assistance due to ongoing challenges such as the impact of the Gaza war and limited access to essential resources like food, clean water, electricity, and healthcare.
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Eide called for expedited early-recovery efforts and improved humanitarian access to address the pressing needs of Palestinians. He also urged for the implementation of a 20-point peace plan adopted by the UN Security Council, while stressing the importance of Palestinian leadership in reconstruction initiatives.
Norway’s support for Palestine this year amounts to around 1 billion Norwegian kroner. The Norwegian government reiterated its opposition to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which it argues exacerbates insecurity and hinders efforts towards achieving a political resolution. The expansion of settlements, along with settler violence and restrictions on Palestinian movement, were cited as significant obstacles to peace.
By increasing its aid, Norway aims to mitigate the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and foster conditions conducive to recovery and peace negotiations. The Norwegian government continues to advocate for a balanced approach that prioritizes the needs and agency of the Palestinian people in their path towards stability and development.