Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called Thursday upon the international community to exert pressure on Israel to allow Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem, to participate in the upcoming elections.
"Palestinian democracy should not be a hostage to the mood of the Israeli occupation. Signed agreements stipulate that all Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including Jerusalem, are allowed to participate in the elections, and we want the international community to pressure for this," he said.
The Prime Minister's remarks came during a meeting with 51 foreign ambassadors, consuls and members of the diplomatic corps at his office in Ramallah, where they discussed the latest developments concerning the holding of the national elections in Palestine.
Last week, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas decreed the first Palestinian elections in more than 15 years and said parliamentary elections will be held on May 22, followed by a presidential vote on July 31.
Shtayyeh called on countries, throughout their ambassadors, to send observers to contribute to the success of the elections, saying that he appreciates all forms of support for holding the elections.
The Prime Minister stressed that the government will continue its mission to the fullest until the completion of the Legislative Council elections and the formation of a new government, adding that his government will spare no effort to make the elections a success.
"There is strong political will on the side of the leadership, headed by President Mahmoud Abbas, and all factions to hold the elections. The elections are a gateway to end the division and restore national unity after reconciliation agreements failed in that," Shtayyeh told the ambassadors.
“This election is very important to us because it will end the split and bring back democracy. We would like to see democracy flourishing and back on track."