Brussels: Press remarks from the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee meeting in Brussels emphasized the European Union's commitment to supporting the Palestinian Authority and advancing the two-state solution. High Representative/Vice-President Kaja Kallas, Norwegian Minister for Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide, and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa discussed regional challenges, including the fragile ceasefires with Iran and Lebanon and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

According to European Union, the meetings highlighted Europe's role as the largest supporter of the Palestinian people, providing financial aid and backing the Palestinian Authority through various missions on the ground. The Ad Hoc Liaison Committee focused on the next steps to support Gaza and the West Bank, stressing the need for both Israel and the Palestinian Authority to make concessions for peace. Israel is urged to halt settlement expansion and release withheld tax revenues, while the Palestinian Authority is encouraged to implement reforms and address the issue of Hamas in Gaza.

Discussions also covered the governance of Gaza, emphasizing collaboration between the Palestinian Authority and the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, supported by the EU's endorsement of the Gaza peace plan based on UN Security Council Resolution 2803. Rebuilding Gaza is estimated to require substantial investment, with a recent assessment estimating costs at over 71 billion pounds.

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of regional instability on global maritime routes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, and the necessity of addressing issues beyond the nuclear question in negotiations with Iran. The European Union continues to advocate for Palestinian reforms while pressing Israel to release funds owed to the Palestinians, acknowledging the limitations of its influence but remaining committed to diplomatic efforts.

Member States are considering the potential suspension of the Association Agreement with Israel, reflecting internal debates on applying pressure in response to recent actions in Southern Lebanon and the withholding of Palestinian revenues. However, a unified position is required for such measures, and discussions will continue.

Despite differing views on international initiatives like the Board of Peace, the EU remains focused on Palestinian-led and owned state-building efforts, reinforcing the importance of regional cooperation and the role of Palestinians in shaping their future.