Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas (L) hands a mandate to Mohammad Mustafa in the West Bank City of Ramallah, on March 14, 2024. [Photo/Palestinian President Office handout via Xinhua]
The Palestinian new government headed by Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa was sworn in on Sunday in the West Bank.
The new government consists of 23 ministerial portfolios, including at least six ministers from the Gaza Strip. Mustafa will also take over the position of foreign minister from veteran diplomat Riyad Al-Maliki.
During the swearing-in ceremony in front of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Mustafa pledged that his new government would serve all Palestinians, stressing the government's political references are the Palestine Liberation Organization and its political program and international commitments, as mandated by the letter of assignment outlined by Abbas.
At a meeting with the new government after the ceremony, Abbas reaffirmed that work is underway in coordination with Arab and international parties to stop the conflict in Gaza.
"Our political goal is to achieve freedom, independence and liberation from the (Israeli) occupation, and we are working with concerned Arab and international parties to obtain full membership in the United Nations," said the president, according to the official news agency WAFA.
On March 14, Abbas tasked Mustafa, the head of the Palestine Investment Fund and his longtime economic advisor, to form the 19th government, according to WAFA.
His appointment came after the former government resigned in light of challenging circumstances amid the developments in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem, as well as mounting pressure on Abbas to reform the Palestinian Authority and establish a political framework capable of governing a future Palestinian state in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict.
Jason Kelce would be a 'dream' partner on Dancing with the Stars, says pro dancer
Lewandowski hat trick gives Barcelona comeback victory over Valencia
Militia clashes rock western Libyan town. At least 1 civilian was killed, officials say
A retired Roman Catholic bishop who tried to mediate between cartels in Mexico has been kidnapped
Morel hits tiebreaking HR off Díaz in 9th and Cubs top Mets 3
1 military horse under observation, another to recover fully, British Army says
Accident in NW China's metro line test leaves 1 dead, 2 injured
Bruins, Hurricanes, Canucks and Avalanche look to advance to second round of the NHL playoffs
Girls in Rio favela hope to play in 2027 Women's World Cup
1 military horse under observation, another to recover fully, British Army says