Palestine needs action now, not statements: Shaheen

Palestinian Foreign Minister Wasel Awwad Abu Yousef Shahin said that there has been a notable shift in global attitudes, particularly in Europe, regarding Israeli occupation and illegal settlements, but it is now necessary to translate this sympathy into concrete actions.

In an interview with the Anadolu Agency, Shahin stated, "There is an increasing international trend of isolating Israel and sympathizing with the Palestinians. However, mere statements are no longer sufficient. What is needed now are not more statements, but concrete decisions." Shahin noted that countries like Spain and Germany have begun to take a clearer stance in criticizing Israeli occupation, illegal settlements, and settler violence. Other countries, such as the Netherlands, are also moving in the same direction. This shift is "meaningful" but still "below the desired level." There is a need to rapidly translate this trend into tangible actions on the ground.

Shahin said that Israel continues its policies because it does not face any consequences for its actions. He urged the international community to take steps towards accountability, including sanctions and legal action.

Referring to the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court against Israeli leaders, Shahin said that the failure to implement these decisions reflects a significant failure in enforcing international law. Shahin stated bluntly, "As long as Israel is not held accountable and forced to pay a real price, it will remain distant from peace efforts." Shahin warned that the situation in the occupied West Bank is deteriorating rapidly due to settlement expansion, increasing settler attacks, and harsh restrictions on Palestinians. He said that annexation is no longer a future scenario but a present reality. The current situation is gradually solidifying this reality and undermining hopes for the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Describing the humanitarian situation in Gaza as "devastating," Shahin said that aid is still insufficient, and the healthcare system is on the verge of collapse. He also pointed to the economic crisis in the West Bank, partly caused by Israel's withholding of tax revenues, which has left many families struggling to meet basic needs. Shahin added that efforts are underway to integrate Gaza's future governance under a unified Palestinian framework, warning that fragmentation would make the recovery and stability process even more complex.

Shahin praised Turkey's robust political and humanitarian support, saying that Ankara's aid and advocacy are "having a real impact on the ground." He noted that Palestinian-Turkish relations are based on Turkey's long-standing support for Palestinian rights on international platforms. Shahin expressed gratitude to the Turkish government and people for their solidarity with the Palestinians, saying that this support "empowers the Palestinians' ability to remain steadfast in the face of current realities."