Ramallah, 7 May 2024 (TDI): To draw attention to the escalation in Gaza, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Mustafa held a phone call with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong today. The detailed conversation touched upon the continuing atrocities and Israeli aggression.
Prime Minister Muhammad Mustafa briefed the Australian Foreign Minister on the apprehensions regarding the invasion of Rafah by land. He warned that the ongoing raids on Palestinian villages and camps in West Bank and Jerusalem have worsened the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Palestine’s Crisis Response
Additionally, the phone call also highlighted the role of the Palestinian government in combatting the “humanitarian catastrophe” and escalation in Gaza. Prime Minister Muhammad Mustafa apprised the Australian Foreign Minister of the efforts being put in place for Palestine’s economic prosperity.
These efforts include restoring basic amenities and extending immediate humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip. In addition, in post-recognition scenarios, the Prime Minister also delineated institutional reforms for the state of Palestine.
Australia’s Support for Palestine
Furthermore, the Palestinian Prime Minister Muhammad Mustafa expressed gratitude for Australia’s decision to resume humanitarian aid directed at Gaza, worth $52 million.
The aid will be restored and channeled via United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Red Crescent Committee, United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and the Red Cross.
Moreover, Prime Minister Muhammad Mustafa stressed the importance of Australia’s recognition of Palestine’s statehood in quelling escalation in Gaza. Palestine’s admission in the United Nations as a full member will put an end to Israeli occupation and aggression.
Also Read: President Abbas commends Trinidad and Tobago’s recognition of Palestine
Lastly, the phone call to Australian counterpart comes in the backdrop of Palestinian government’s efforts to achieve recognition of Palestinian statehood. For the said cause, Palestinian authorities held a meeting with Slovenian Foreign Minister in Ramallah on 5th May, 2024.
Recent efforts demonstrate that acknowledging Palestinian people’s right to self-determination can help achieve lasting peace in the region.
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