A critical time for the Palestinian Authority

State Secretary Raymond Johansen visited Israel and the West Bank from 11 to 12 December to get an update on the political developments in the area.

 “77 000 Palestinian Authority (PA) employees in Gaza finally received their long-overdue salaries today,” said Mr Johansen. “The banks have been out of cash and the border closed by the Israeli authorities for several weeks. Meanwhile, reports have kept coming into East Jerusalem of settlers occupying Palestinian property. This gives cause for concern because it will make it more difficult to find a peaceful solution.”

“There is an atmosphere of uncertainty. Many people in the region are wondering what line the new US administration will take. Israel is focusing on the election campaign leading up to the election in January. This is a critical time for the PA. It is therefore important to maintain focus on events on the ground. And it is important to avoid steps being taken that further disrupt the balance between the parties and make it even harder to reach a negotiated solution to the situation,” Mr Johansen continues.

“It is extremely important that Israel shows real willingness to open up the physical barriers in the West Bank that are preventing trade and economic growth for the Palestinians. I am concerned that the closure regime is weakening the position of Prime Minister Fayyad and the moderate forces,” said Mr Johansen.

“The rise of radical forces is undermining the peace efforts. The Qassam rockets fired from Gaza are a threat not only to the Israeli civilian population but also to the prospects of a peaceful solution. We condemn these attacks and urge that the ceasefire is respected.” State Secretary Johansen also emphasised how important it is that the ceasefire is extended when it expires on 19 December this year.