OSLO: Norway, chairing the international donors group for Palestine, has called upon the global community to maintain its crucial aid to Palestinians in the wake of the unrelented Israeli airstrikes on Gaza Strip. Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt emphasized the significance of continued assistance to prevent a further deterioration of the situation in the occupied region.
“The situation will only deteriorate further if the international community suspends or reduces its assistance at this critical juncture,” Huitfeldt stated.
Several countries, including Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Sweden, had announced the suspension of their development aid to Palestinians amid Israeli bombardment of Gaza Strip. However, they clarified that humanitarian aid would still be provided.
Just got off the phone with Egypt’s FM Sameh Shoukry. Expressed Norway’s condemnation of Hamas horrific attacks on Israeli civilians.
Agreed that innocent people should not suffer as a result. Humanitarian aid is essential. Egypt plays a key role in ensuring de-escalation.
— Anniken Huitfeldt (@AHuitfeldt) October 9, 2023
Sustained Financial Aid to Palestinians
In her statement, Huitfeldt, in her capacity as the chair of the international donor group AHLC, urged the global community to persist in providing financial support to the innocent Palestinian people. She highlighted that this aid encompasses assistance to the Palestinian Authority through channels like the World Bank, aid facilitated by international organizations such as the UN system, as well as support for humanitarian organizations and Palestinian civil society initiatives.
Huitfeldt affirmed that Norway would continue its aid efforts while assessing the viability of ongoing projects in Gaza, which has been severely impacted by heavy artillery strikes from the Israeli army.
