Newly-formed Palestinian Gov’t Sets Out Priorities

The newly-formed Palestinian government, headed by PM Mohammad Mustafa, held its first cabinet meeting at the prime minister’s office in the central West Bank (DPA)
The newly-formed Palestinian government, headed by PM Mohammad Mustafa, held its first cabinet meeting at the prime minister’s office in the central West Bank (DPA)
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Newly-formed Palestinian Gov’t Sets Out Priorities

The newly-formed Palestinian government, headed by PM Mohammad Mustafa, held its first cabinet meeting at the prime minister’s office in the central West Bank (DPA)
The newly-formed Palestinian government, headed by PM Mohammad Mustafa, held its first cabinet meeting at the prime minister’s office in the central West Bank (DPA)

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa has outlined three key priorities for his government: easing the suffering of Gazans, stabilizing finances, and improving institutional performance.

The newly-formed Palestinian government, headed by Mustafa, held its first cabinet meeting at the prime minister’s office in the central West Bank.

“The government’s current priorities include alleviating the suffering of the residents of Gaza, achieving financial stability, and implementing a program to reform and develop the performance of institutions,” affirmed Mustafa at the meeting.

The prime minister stressed the urgent need to address the challenges faced by Palestinians, including the ongoing violence and economic hardships.

He highlighted efforts to achieve financial stability, which is crucial for effective relief and development initiatives, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming Palestinian funds held by Israel, calling it a top priority.

Mustafa also underlined the government’s third priority: a plan to reform and improve public institutions for better productivity, transparency, and accountability. He promised tangible results for Palestinians, not just words.

The premier urged all Palestinians to support and facilitate the government’s work, emphasizing the importance of national unity and solidarity.

He stressed that the focus should be on the government’s agenda as a comprehensive national program, rather than just supporting the government itself.

Mustafa’s government faces significant challenges, including administrative, security, and economic issues in the West Bank, as well as ongoing tensions with Hamas in Gaza.

Last month, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas appointed Mustafa to form the nineteenth government, with key tasks including coordinating relief efforts in Gaza, reconstruction, institution-building, and preparing for upcoming elections.

Mustafa, a prominent businessman and economic expert, was chosen to lead the new government after the previous Prime Minister, Mohammad Shtayyeh, stepped down.

This move was made to address calls for reforms within the Palestinian Authority and to challenge Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reluctance to allow either Fatah or Hamas to govern Gaza after the recent conflict.

Palestinians are watching closely to see how the government handles tough issues like aiding Gazans, rebuilding after the war, dealing with Hamas, and fixing the financial crisis. The government faces challenges in paying employees regularly and reducing the Palestinian Authority’s large debt.

Despite some financial relief, the government still struggles to pay all employees and owes money to various parties, including Israeli companies.

Mustafa’s government needs to earn the trust of Palestinians, despite receiving support from the US and international community.



Witkoff Says US Expects Phase Two of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal to Proceed

FILE PHOTO: US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool/File Photo
FILE PHOTO: US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool/File Photo
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Witkoff Says US Expects Phase Two of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal to Proceed

FILE PHOTO: US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool/File Photo
FILE PHOTO: US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/Pool/File Photo

President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff said on Sunday the US expects the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal to go forward and that he would visit the Middle East in the coming week.

Witkoff made the comments in a CNN 'State of the Union' interview after being asked about Israel's decision to postpone the release of Palestinian prisoners and detainees and how he expected the ceasefire to be impacted by developments in the region.

"We have to get an extension of phase one," Reuters quoted Witkoff as saying. "I'll be going to the region this week, probably Wednesday, to negotiate that."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said on Sunday Israel was waiting to deliver 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees "until the release of the next hostages has been assured, and without the humiliating ceremonies." Hamas handed over six hostages from Gaza on Saturday.

Some Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners and detainees have been released as part of a three-phase ceasefire in Gaza that went into effect just before Trump took office on January 20.

Palestinian officials have cited the blindfolding and binding of hands of Palestinian prisoners and detainees and warnings against holding celebrations at their release as examples of their humiliation by Israeli authorities.
Israel cites Hamas making hostages appear on stage in front of crowds and sometimes speak before they are handed over, as well as parading coffins with hostage remains through crowds.
Witkoff told CNN that Netanyahu was "well-motivated" and that Hamas cannot continue to govern Gaza.