Ramallah
The Palestinian Authority (PA) has welcomed new foreign fund pledges aimed at helping it continue government services despite financial struggles. The PA’s finances have been worsened by the war in Gaza, with Israel withholding tax revenues collected on its behalf.
Donor countries including Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Spain pledged at least $170 million during a meeting in New York, according to Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa’s office. This funding will support the PA’s budget at a time of increasing pressure on its resources.
The announcement coincided with world leaders gathering for the United Nations General Assembly, where several countries such as France and Britain recently recognized the State of Palestine.
Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas addressed the General Assembly via video, firmly rejecting any future role for Hamas in governing Palestine. Since 2007, Hamas has controlled Gaza, and the PA has had no leadership role there.
The new funds come as a crucial lifeline to help the PA maintain essential services amid ongoing political and economic challenges.