Speaking from Ramallah via video conference on Wednesday, Al-Sheikh said Palestinians face escalating threats due to Israel’s ongoing occupation, failure to uphold the Gaza ceasefire, expanding settlement activity, settler violence, and the withholding of Palestinian funds. He stressed that these policies undermine prospects for peace and the two-state solution.
Al-Sheikh outlined the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire, full humanitarian access, Israeli withdrawal, and the start of recovery and reconstruction. He reaffirmed that Gaza is an integral part of the Palestinian state, which continues to provide essential services despite severe financial constraints.
Turning to the West Bank and East Jerusalem, he warned of intensified settlement expansion, land seizures, raids, and attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites. He called for preserving the historic and legal status of the holy places and cautioned that Israeli policies fuel instability.
Al-Sheikh highlighted the financial crisis caused by Israel’s illegal withholding of Palestinian revenues, urging international efforts to secure their release. He also briefed diplomats on dialogue with the U.S. administration, aimed at restoring funds, ending punitive measures, and supporting implementation of international resolutions related to Gaza.
He presented the national reform program, describing it as a strategic choice to strengthen governance, rule of law, transparency, and accountability, while advancing public services, women’s empowerment, and youth participation. Progress has been made in financial, administrative, and judicial reforms, as well as social protection and education.
Al-Sheikh also discussed the roadmap for elections to renew national legitimacy, noting preparations for Palestinian National Council, legislative, and presidential elections. He reiterated that the two-state solution, based on international legitimacy and UN resolutions, remains the only path to peace and stability.
He urged the international community to move beyond statements of condemnation toward concrete measures to end the occupation and protect Palestinians. Concluding the meeting, he expressed appreciation for the political, economic, and humanitarian support provided by friendly nations, stressing the importance of sustaining this assistance.
The meeting was attended by Fatah Central Committee members Mousa Abu Zaid and Laila Ghannam, PLO Executive Committee members Bassam Al-Salhi and Ahmad Majdalani, presidential advisor Majdi Al-Khalidi, and Foreign Minister Varsen Agabikian Shahin.
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