Norway's Representative Office in Palestine 'closed until further notice'

Norway's Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, has condemned the Israeli Occupation's decision to no longer facilitate Norway's representation to the Palestinian Authority, describing it as an action aimed at undermining the Palestinian people.

In a statement on Friday, Eide emphasized that Norway's support for the Palestinian Authority and the Palestinian people must continue with full force, despite the Israeli Occupation government's decision. He characterized the move as "extreme and unreasonable," asserting that it targets the Palestinians, the Palestinian Authority, and all those who defend international law, the two-state solution, and the Palestinians' legitimate right to self-determination.

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Eide said that this decision by the Israeli Occupation would have significant consequences for Norway's work in Palestine, particularly affecting the embassy staff and diplomats who have been directly impacted by the revocation of their diplomatic status.

Eide also noted that Norway has received strong support from several key countries, including the USA, the EU, Germany, the UK, and France, all of whom have protested against the Israeli government's actions.

Despite these challenges, Eide reassured that Norway remains committed to achieving a sustainable two-state solution as well as for the stability of the Middle East.

‘Norway is a friend of Israel and the Israeli people. We have strongly condemned Hamas' terrorist attack against Israel on October 7 last year. We have been clear that the hostages must be released immediately and that a ceasefire is more urgent than ever. Important negotiations on a ceasefire and the release of the hostages are currently taking place in Doha. It is high time that this agreement is reached,‘ added the Foreign Minister.

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