Prime Minister: Israel is suffocating the Palestinian economy and preventing clearance funds for a full year

Follow-up from SadaNews: The Palestinian Prime Minister, Dr. Mohammad Mustafa, confirmed that the Israeli occupation continues its policy of "economic strangulation" against the Palestinian people by preventing the transfer of clearance funds for over 12 months, a move he described as an attempt to destroy the institutions of the Palestinian state and hinder its future establishment.

Mustafa stated in a press conference that there are significant obstacles preventing the committee in charge from functioning, hindering the Council for Peace and Donors from providing the necessary funds for the relief of the Gaza Strip. He pointed out that the humanitarian situation in the sector is "deplorable and unacceptable," and that the Palestinian government calls for change in this reality at every platform to be able to seriously contribute to saving the people and alleviating their suffering.

Regarding the economic situation, he clarified that the occupation has not only choked Gaza but is also seeking, through political, security, and financial means, to suffocate the West Bank by controlling the funds that are considered the "lifeblood" of any community. He added that Israel has been deducting clearance funds for years, but the rate of these deductions has significantly increased over the past 12 months, as not a single amount has been transferred to the State of Palestine throughout the year.

He noted that this procedure represents a form of security, political, and economic occupation, emphasizing that the government is making every effort to liberate these funds and provide the possible means to thwart Israel's program aimed at undermining Palestinian institutions.

The Prime Minister stressed that citizens and public employees are suffering from this crisis, expressing gratitude for their patience, and specifically thanking the Palestinian private sector which is playing a positive role in shouldering responsibility during these difficult circumstances.