GAZA: Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has urged the United States and the international community to respond decisively and seriously to Israel’s plans to expand control in the West Bank. He made the remarks during his visit to Oslo, the capital of Norway, and noted that he discussed the violence of Israeli settlers and the freezing of $4 billion in financial aid for Palestinians during his meeting with the Norwegian Prime Minister. The Palestinian Authority President emphasized that these actions by Israel represent a “blatant violation of international law” and must be met with a strong response from the world. Previously, the Israeli security cabinet approved measures allowing Israel to extend control over areas currently administered by Palestinians under the Oslo Accords. Simultaneously, several countries, including the United Kingdom, have condemned these actions and warned of the threats they pose to peace and security in the region.
