Norway will contribute an additional 125 million Norwegian kroner, approximately $13.2 million, in aid to Palestine through the United Nations and World Bank, focusing on supporting the Palestinian public sector. This announcement was made by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, who highlighted the pressing need for international assistance due to the ongoing impacts of the Gaza conflict, which have severely restricted access to essential services such as food, clean water, electricity, and healthcare.
Eide emphasized the importance of accelerating early-recovery efforts and improving humanitarian access in the region. He also urged the implementation of a 20-point peace plan adopted by the UN Security Council and asserted that Palestinians should take a leading role in reconstruction initiatives.
Norway has reiterated its stance against Israeli settlement activities in the West Bank, stating that the expansion of settlements, attacks by settlers, and movement restrictions on Palestinians are exacerbating insecurity and complicating efforts to reach a political resolution.
In total, Norway is set to provide around 1 billion Norwegian kroner in assistance to Palestine this year, underscoring its commitment to supporting Palestinian needs amidst ongoing challenges in the region.