Rivals’ accord paves way for Palestine coalition

Fatah’s Azzam Al-Ahmad, right, and Saleh Al-Arouri of Hamas after signing a reconciliation deal in Cairo, Oct. 12, 2017, as the two rival Palestinian movements ended their decade-long split. (AFP)
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Updated 23 January 2021
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Rivals’ accord paves way for Palestine coalition

  • Hamas and Fatah agreed to share surplus votes in elections for a national unity government that will run affairs in Gaza and the West Bank
  • A coalition government appears to give the people of Gaza a chance to exercise freedom of movement and benefit from rebuilding work in the enclave

AMMAN: Fatah and Hamas leaders appear to be moving closer to setting up a unified list that will be the basis of a Palestinian coalition government, a draft agreement between the rival factions reveals.

The agreement, seen by Arab News, was a key factor in the decision to hold elections — Palestine’s first in 15 years — on May 22.

Details of the accord were discussed at meetings in Istanbul and Cairo, and became the basis of an exchange of letters between Hamas leader Ismael Haniyeh and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Compromises appear to have been made by both sides, but particularly by Hamas, which accepts that “the PLO (Palestine Liberation Organization) is the sole, legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, and is responsible for all external political issues and negotiations as well as all issues related to war and peace.”

However, Fatah, which has effectively controlled the PLO for decades, acknowledges that the organization requires reform and strengthening so it can better represent all Palestinian groups and in order for its decisions to be mandatory.

By agreeing to be part of the PLO and under its political umbrella, Hamas can avoid the problems it faced in 2006 when it refused to recognize Israel. The PLO exchanged letters of recognition with Israel in 1993.

Hamas and Fatah also agreed to share surplus votes in elections for a national unity government that will run affairs in Gaza and the West Bank, and have total control over all Palestinian areas.

Both sides agreed that the new government “will work on unifying laws and institutions, and have security control over all areas.”

A coalition government appears to give the people of Gaza a chance to exercise freedom of movement and benefit from rebuilding work in the enclave.

According to the agreement, one of the main goals of a coalition government seeking to revive Gaza’s battered economy will be a long-term cease-fire with Israel to prepare the groundwork for extensive rebuilding.

The agreement also calls for Gaza airport and all crossings to be permanently restored along with the establishment of a security corridor between Gaza and the West Bank.

Hamas and Fatah also appear to agree on the need for a change in the role of the Palestinian president, with calls for an overhaul of Palestine’s political structure, “especially the roles of the president, government and legislative council.”

“It is either a presidential structure or a parliamentary one,” the accord said. “The hybrid is a source of conflict.”

Changes should take place before the presidential elections due on July 31, it adds.

The two factions also agreed that the “election campaigns must be civilized, respectful, and avoid abuse and libel from all sides.”

According to the agreement, election results “will be recognized no matter what they are.”


Fitch affirms Jordan at ‘BB-’ with stable outlook as reform momentum builds 

Updated 5 min 56 sec ago
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Fitch affirms Jordan at ‘BB-’ with stable outlook as reform momentum builds 

RIYADH: Jordan’s long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating has been affirmed at “BB-” with a stable outlook by Fitch, citing the country’s macroeconomic stability and progress in fiscal and economic reforms. 

The US-based credit rating agency added that the grade, along with the stable outlook, also reflects Jordan’s resilient financing sources — including a liquid banking sector, a robust public pension fund, and continued international support. 

Despite the stable outlook, Jordan’s credit rating remains lower than that of several other countries in the region. In February, Fitch affirmed Saudi Arabia’s IDR at “A+” with a stable outlook, while the UAE was rated “AA-.” 

In its latest report, Fitch stated: “The ratings are constrained by high government debt, moderate growth, risks stemming from domestic and regional politics, and current account deficits and net external debt that are higher than rating peer.” 

According to the agency, a “BB” rating signifies elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time, although some business or financial flexibility exists to support the servicing of financial commitments. 

The report noted that Jordan’s government remains committed to advancing its three-pillar reforms across the economic, public administration, and political sectors, despite external pressures. 

Fitch added that the pace of reform will continue to be influenced by the need to preserve social stability, resistance from vested interests, and institutional capacity constraints. 

Jordan’s gross domestic product expanded by 2.5 percent in 2024, and Fitch projects growth of 2.7 percent in 2025 and 2.8 percent in 2026. 

“This reflects our assumptions of headwinds from weaker global growth, partly balanced by recovery in tourism from Europe following an easing of regional conflicts. Iraq will remain a dynamic export market for Jordan and nascent trade with Syria could add further impetus,” the report said. 

In April, the International Monetary Fund offered a similar projection, forecasting 2.7 percent growth in 2025, driven by a rebound in tourism and improved domestic demand. 

Fitch also noted that the imposition of US tariffs and the resulting uncertainty will slow global demand, which is expected to impact demand for Jordanian exports. 

Exports to the US accounted for 26 percent of Jordan’s total in 2024, including 27 percent from precious metals and stones — categories that are exempt from duties. 

Apparel made up 56 percent of Jordan’s exports to the US, and this sector faces the risk of a 20 percent tariff. 

According to Fitch, the general government deficit stabilized at 2.4 percent of GDP in 2024, amid higher interest payments and lower capital expenditure. 

The agency projects the deficit will rise to 2.6 percent in both 2025 and 2026, as continued spending restraint is offset by growing interest costs. 

The report further warned that persistent geopolitical risks could negatively impact Jordan’s credit profile, even as it benefits from strong multilateral and bilateral support. 

“As tensions between Israel and Iran remain heightened and the war in Gaza continues, geopolitical risks remain high. Uncertainty remains regarding the course and duration of the conflict,” said Fitch. 

Other factors that could weigh on Jordan’s credit rating include a weakening of support from external partners and a marked increase in external indebtedness. 

Jordan is on track to receive disbursements under its four-year, $1.2 billion Extended Fund Facility with the IMF. 

It has also entered into a new program with the EU, which includes €1 billion ($1.07 billion) in macro-financial assistance. 

Fitch identified several factors that could lead to a rating upgrade, including a sustained decline in government debt as a share of GDP and a return to growth levels above pre-pandemic averages, resulting in lower unemployment.


Lebanon state media say ‘series’ of Israeli strikes hit south

Updated 8 min 2 sec ago
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Lebanon state media say ‘series’ of Israeli strikes hit south

  • Israeli strikes targeted the Nabatiyeh district around 12 kilometers from the border

BEIRUT: Lebanese official media said Israel conducted air strikes on the south on Thursday, the latest in a string of raids despite a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah.
The state-run National News Agency (NNA) said “a series of Israeli strikes” targeted the Nabatiyeh district around 12 kilometers (seven miles) from the border, while local media outlets said the raids hit mountainous regions away from residential areas.


Meena Health launches Riyadh’s first occupational health center

Updated 20 min 22 sec ago
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Meena Health launches Riyadh’s first occupational health center

Meena Health has officially opened the Meena Occupational Health Center in Riyadh — the first dedicated facility in the capital to provide specialized healthcare services focused exclusively on occupational health and safety. The launch marks a major milestone in advancing preventive care for the Kingdom’s workforce and aligns with broader national efforts to foster healthier, safer work environments.

Coinciding with the center’s inauguration, Meena Health also signed a series of strategic agreements and MoUs, reinforcing its leadership position in the field and its growing role within Saudi Arabia’s evolving healthcare landscape.

The Meena Occupational Health Center offers an integrated suite of services that includes pre-employment medical evaluations, periodic employee health checkups, and specialized assessments for high-risk industries such as aviation and maritime. The facility also provides rehabilitation services and disability assessments, all designed to foster a culture of prevention, support regulatory compliance, and elevate occupational health standards nationwide.

To bring healthcare closer to the workplace, Meena Health signed a cooperation agreement to establish on-site clinics at company locations, allowing employees to access care conveniently within their work environments. Additionally, a new MoU will facilitate the delivery of medical fitness examinations for both new and existing employees, enhancing workforce readiness and reducing occupational health risks.

The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health has designated Meena Occupational Health Center as a center of excellence. This acknowledgment highlights the center’s role in preventive occupational healthcare and its contribution to building safe, sustainable workplaces in line with global best practices.

Moreover, Meena Academy signed an academic partnership with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The collaboration will focus on developing national talent through specialized training and education programs tailored to the occupational health sector.

Dr. Suleiman Al-Towayan, CEO of Meena Health, emphasized the significance of this launch as a transformative step toward improving employee well-being across Saudi Arabia. “Opening Riyadh’s first specialized occupational health center sets a new benchmark for workplace health and safety in the Kingdom.” he said. “It reflects our commitment to advancing the goals of Vision 2030 by promoting a proactive approach to healthcare through early screening, home care, telemedicine, and now, specialized occupational services.”

He added: “At Meena Health, we believe that prevention is better than cure. This belief drives everything we do.”

With the launch of its first specialized occupational health center in Riyadh, Meena Health is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of workplace wellness in Saudi Arabia. The company remains committed to advancing preventive healthcare, strengthening strategic partnerships, and supporting the Kingdom’s journey toward a more resilient and healthier workforce.


Marco Rubio, Saudi FM discuss efforts to de-escalate India-Pakistan tensions

Updated 17 sec ago
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Marco Rubio, Saudi FM discuss efforts to de-escalate India-Pakistan tensions

  • World leaders, including Trump, have urged restraint and called for peaceful resolution of issues between both states
  • India launched missile attacks inside Pakistan a day earlier, while Islamabad said it had shot down five fighter jets

ISLAMABAD: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud discussed efforts to de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and India as South Asia faces the risk of a major conflict, his office said on Thursday.
The development follows Indian missile strikes a day earlier that killed 31 people and injured 57 in different Pakistani cities, with New Delhi calling it a response to an April 22 attack in the disputed Kashmir region that left 26 tourists dead and which it blamed on Pakistan despite Islamabad’s repeated denials.
Pakistan said it shot down five Indian fighter jets and destroyed several border posts in the military clash that followed. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed the Indian missile attacks a “grave mistake” and warned that New Delhi “will have to face consequences.”
“The secretary and the foreign minister discussed regional security matters, economic engagement and efforts to de-escalate tensions between India and Pakistan,” US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said.
She added the US state secretary also commended the Saudi government for its efforts to help stabilize Syria, to stop the fighting in Sudan and continued engagement with Lebanon and the issues in the Red Sea.
World leaders including President Donald Trump on Wednesday urged restraint and pressed for a peaceful resolution between the nuclear-armed neighbors amid rising fears of a broader military confrontation.
Earlier on Thursday, Pakistan’s military said it had shot down 12 Israeli-made Harop drones launched by India at multiple locations, adding that the cross-border campaign was continuing and had left one civilian dead and four army officers injured.
India and Pakistan have fought multiple wars since independence over the disputed Himalayan region which they both claim in full but control in parts.
 


Israel forces close UN schools in annexed east Jerusalem

Updated 08 May 2025
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Israel forces close UN schools in annexed east Jerusalem

  • 550 pupils aged six to 15 were present when the closure was enforced

JERUSALEM: The UN agency for Palestinian refugees said Thursday that Israel closed three of its schools in annexed east Jerusalem, months after an Israeli ban on its activities took effect.
An AFP photographer at the scene reported that a closure notice in Hebrew was left at the entrance of at least one of the schools, and UNRWA said at least one of its staff members was detained.
“From May 8, 2025, it will be prohibited to operate educational institutions, or employ teachers, teaching staff or any other staff, and it will be forbidden to accommodate students or allow the entry of students into this institution,” the closure order read.
UNRWA’s director in the West Bank, Roland Friedrich, told AFP that “heavily armed” forces surrounded three UNRWA schools in east Jerusalem’s Shuafat camp at 9:00 am on Thursday.
Friedrich added that 550 pupils aged six to 15 were present when the closure was enforced, calling the event “a traumatising experience for young children who are at immediate risk of losing their access to education.”
Friedrich said that police were being deployed at three separate schools in other parts of east Jerusalem.
The Palestinian Authority condemned the move in a statement to AFP, calling it “violation of children’s right to education.”
Israel claims all of Jerusalem as its “indivisible” capital, though the United Nations considers its annexation of the city’s eastern sector illegal.
The Palestinians see east Jerusalem as the capital of their future independent state.