News and press releases about the crisis in the The Middle East

Overview of the Norwegian government's handling of the conflict in The Middle East.

  • 2025

    • Statement by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on attacks on humanitarian workers in Gaza (Wednesday, 2 April 2025)

      Norway strongly condemns the attacks on humanitarian workers in Gaza.

      Read more:

    • 'We condemn Israel’s resumption of hostilities in Gaza' (Thursday, 20 March 2025)

      'We condemn Israel’s resumption of hostilities in Gaza, where several hundred are reported to have been killed since Tuesday, according to local authorities. On Wednesday, at least one UN staff member was also killed, and several others seriously injured. It is unacceptable that humanitarian personnel and civilians are affected. We remind all parties in an armed conflict of their obligation to comply with international humanitarian law', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Uttalelse fra utenriksminister Eide om gjenopptatt krigføring i Gaza (Tuesday, 18 March 2025)

      'Israel has resumed their military operations in Gaza. The situation is a nightmare, both for the severely suffering Palestinian civilian population, and for the Israeli hostages and their families', said Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on the situation in Palestine (Tuesday, 11 March 2025)

      ‘The situation in Palestine has been in a critical phase since the first period of the ceasefire agreement for Gaza expired a week ago’, says Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the situation in Syria (Saturday, 8 March 2025)

      – I am deeply worried about the violent clashes in the western regions of Syria, says Espen Barth Eide, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide: The Arab plan for Gaza’s reconstruction should receive broad international support (Wednesday, 5 March 2025)

      "I welcome the agreement among Arab countries on a joint plan for the reconstruction of Gaza. The plan clearly states that Palestinian ownership must be a guiding principle in reconstruction efforts and that the Palestinians’ right to remain on their own land must be upheld. The fact that the Arab countries in the region are united on key issues concerning Palestine’s future lends significant weight to the plan," said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Uttalelse om situasjonen på Vestbredden (Sunday, 23 February 2025)

      ‘I am deeply concerned about the expulsion of Palestinians from refugee camps in the West Bank, as well as statements from Israeli authorities indicating that Israeli forces will remain in the area and prevent residents from returning. This is unacceptable’, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway transfers USD 24.5 Million to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) (Thursday, 30 January 2025)

      'Gaza is in ruins, and UNRWA is needed more than ever. The fact that Israeli laws, which can effectively prevent UNRWA from operating in Palestine, are coming into force is extremely dramatic. This is particularly serious at a time when all efforts should be directed towards implementing the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. It is now crucial that the international community provides UNRWA with political and financial support so that all Palestine refugees in the region can continue to receive vital assistance and services,' said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide: Visiting Syria leaves a profound impression (Sunday, 19 January 2025)

      ‘Syria may be at a turning point. We have seen positive initial signals from the transitional government, but we need to be prepared for the fact that developments can go both ways. It is imperative that the international community contributes to a positive development in this crucial phase. This is the reason for my visit to Syria’, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • New leadership offers new hope for Lebanon (Saturday, 18 January 2025)

      ‘Lebanon faces enormous challenges, but the country's new president and prime minister represent a new momentum in Lebanese politics that could have an impact far beyond Lebanon's borders,’ said Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Chair’s statement: Meeting in the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State solution (Thursday, 16 January 2025)

      On Wednesday 15 January, 85 states and international organisations met in Oslo, Norway, for the third follow-up meeting in the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two State-Solution, initiated by Saudi Arabia as Chair of the Arab-OIC Ministerial Committee on Gaza, the EU and Norway.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas (Wednesday, 15 January 2025)

      It is very encouraging and long overdue that the parties, after 15 months of warfare, death, fear, and destruction, have reached a ceasefire. The ceasefire will be implemented through various phases. It is now crucial that all parties respect all parts of the agreement, that weapons are laid down, that hostages are released, and that enough life-saving aid reaches Gaza.

      Read more:

    • Strong international support for Palestine and the two-state solution at Global Alliance meeting in Oslo (Wednesday, 15 January 2025)

      ‘We need action, not just words. The international community must do more to ensure that the two-state solution becomes a reality. Today, I have urged everyone to think creatively about the concrete steps each of us can take to help build the Palestinian state. It is clear from our meeting that a vast majority of the world’s countries support a two-state solution. A just solution that safeguards the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination is a prerequisite for lasting peace, and cannot be put off to a later date,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Palestinian Prime Minister to pay official visit to Norway (Monday, 13 January 2025)

      Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa is coming to Norway on an official visit on 14–15 January. This is the first official visit from Palestine since Norway recognised Palestine as a state.

      Read more:

    • Norway is transferring Palestinian clearence revenues (Sunday, 12 January 2025)

      ‘I am very pleased that Norway, based on an understanding between the Palestinian and Israeli governments, is transferring USD 420 million, which the Palestinian government will use to cover expenses for electricity and fuel,’ said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

  • 2024

    • Norway to increase the support to Lebanon (Friday, 20 December 2024)

      'Despite the ceasefire, the Lebanese population finds itself in a highly vulnerable situation. Many people are still internally displaced, and there is significant material destruction. This is why Norway has decided to increase the support to Lebanon,' said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide

      Read more:

    • Strong UN support for Norwegian-led resolution on humanitarian access in Palestine (Thursday, 19 December 2024)

      ‘137 countries in the UN General Assembly have sent a powerful message. It is unacceptable for Israel to block the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Palestinians living under occupation,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Prime Minister Støre met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi (Monday, 9 December 2024)

      On Monday 9 December, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre welcomed the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, to a working lunch in the Government Guest House in Oslo. President El-Sisi is the first Egyptian head of state to pay an official visit to Norway.

      Read more:

    • Medical Evacuation from Gaza: Six Patients to Norway (Monday, 9 December 2024)

      Six patients from Gaza were evacuated from Egypt to Norway on 9 December, in order to receive medical treatment in Norway. The patients are children aged 1–16, travelling with family members. These are the first patients from Gaza to arrive in Norway through medical evacuation.

      Read more:

    • Statement from Foreign Minister Eide on Syria (Monday, 9 December 2024)

      ‘The fall of the Assad regime marks a pivotal moment, offering hope to millions of Syrians’, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Speech by the Prime Minister at the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (Friday, 29 November 2024)

      'I encourage you – especially those of you who are religious leaders – to speak out against racism and discrimination – against both antisemitism and Islamophobia. We, the political leaders, also have a special responsibility for what we say, no matter where we are, in the public debate. Each and every one of us has a responsibility for helping to curtail the growing polarisation and reduce escalating tensions in our society', said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon (Wednesday, 27 November 2024)

      I welcome the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. This is an important first step reached with support from the United States and France. I urge all parties to respect the agreement and to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the arrest warrants issued by the ICC (Thursday, 21 November 2024)

      ‘The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants against Mohammed Diab Ibrahim Al-Masri, Benyamin Netanyahu and Yoav Gallant. The ICC plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability for serious crimes’, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Address to the Storting on the situation in the Middle East (Thursday, 21 November 2024)

    • New action plan against antisemitism (Monday, 11 November 2024)

      Today, the Norwegian Government presented a new action plan to combat antisemitism. ‘Norway is to be a safe place for Jews. We stand united with our Jewish community,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Minister of International Development: Complete breakdown in Gaza (Monday, 11 November 2024)

      ‘Over the past year, the people living in Gaza have suffered enormously and we are now seeing a complete breakdown of Gazan society. More than 43 000 people have been killed. Entire families have been wiped out. Some 60 000 children are acutely undernourished. Cities have been reduced to rubble. Roughly 2 million people are internally displaced. Sick and injured do not get the help and the medical assistance they need,‘ said Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim.

      Read more:

    • Norway asks the UN to clarify Israel’s obligations under international law (Tuesday, 29 October 2024)

      Norway asks the UN General Assembly to request ICJ ruling: Does Israel violate international law as it prevents the UN, international humanitarian organization and states from providing humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians under occupation?

      Read more:

    • Statement by Ireland, Norway, Slovenia and Spain condemning Knesset legislation targeting UNRWA (Monday, 28 October 2024)

      The Governments of Ireland, Norway, Slovenia and Spain condemn the approval by the Knesset of legislation to prevent UNRWA from operating in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.

      Read more:

    • Statement from Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the Israeli Parliament's decision against the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) (Monday, 28 October 2024)

      'Norway strongly rejects the legislation adopted by the Knesset today, which will make it impossible for UNRWA to operate in Palestine', said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide

      Read more:

    • Do not engage in trade and business cooperation that serves to perpetuate Israel's occupation of Palestine (Tuesday, 22 October 2024)

      The Norwegian Government is updating its advice to Norwegian companies not to engage in business cooperation or trade that serves to perpetuate Israel's illegal presence in Palestine – i.e. in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and Gaza.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on forced entry of a UN position (Sunday, 13 October 2024)

      Forced entry of a UN position is a breach of international law, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the situation in Gaza (Saturday, 12 October 2024)

      For more than a year, the people of Gaza have lived in fear of death and destruction. While much attention is focused on Lebanon and a possible escalation in the region, the war in Gaza continues. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating dramatically.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on the shelling of UNIFIL in Lebanon (Friday, 11 October 2024)

      'It is deeply concerning that the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has been fired upon by Israeli forces', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Speech by the Prime Minister at the  Commemoration of 7 October – first anniversary of the terrorist action against Israel (Monday, 7 October 2024)

      'We condemned the terrorist attack when it happened. We continue to condemn all acts of terrorism now. As we come together today, we share a sense of unity that extends across our religious and political points of view and personal narratives. And we share a common anguish', said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide on the anniversary of the terror attack against Israel (Monday, 7 October 2024)

      ‘On the anniversary of Hamas' brutal terrorist attack on 7 October, I send my deepest condolences to all those who lost someone or were injured that day. Up to 1,200 people were killed in the most brutal way. The horrific attack has left deep wounds across the entire Israeli population, reviving some of the most painful memories in the history of Israel and the Jewish people, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway increasing humanitarian support to Lebanon by NOK 80 million (Thursday, 3 October 2024)

      ‘More than a million people have been affected by the ongoing hostilities in Lebanon. Once again, Lebanon has become an arena for the conflicts of others. The country is in a very vulnerable situation and the humanitarian needs are vast and growing. The Norwegian Government has therefore acted quickly to increase Norway’s support to Lebanon by NOK 80 million,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Minister Eide’s remarks at AHLC Ministerial Meeting (Wednesday, 2 October 2024)

      Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Espen Barth Eide’s remarks at the meeting of the international donor group for Palestine (AHLC) Thursday 26. September in New York.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the situation in Lebanon (Saturday, 28 September 2024)

      I am extremely concerned about what is unfolding in Lebanon. Once again, Lebanon is the scene and its hard-pressed civilian population is paying the price for other people's wars. This has to stop.

      Read more:

    • Norwegian Foreign Minister: Growing impatience on behalf of Palestinians (Friday, 27 September 2024)

      ‘A viable Palestinian state is essential to realising a two-state solution. This week, world leaders gathered to discuss how we can support the Palestinian Authority, strengthen Palestinian institutions and implement a two-state solution,’ said Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide met President of the State of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas (Tuesday, 24 September 2024)

      At the meeting in New York on Monday 23 September, Minister of Foreign Affairs Barth Eide reaffirmed Norway's continued strong support for Palestine.

      Read more:

    • Minister Eide met Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib (Monday, 23 September 2024)

      ‘I met my Lebanese colleague, Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, today in New York. I expressed my heartfelt sympathies to the Lebanese people in light of the recent attacks. I also expressed my concern for all those who now live in fear of a regional escalation of the conflict’, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the situation in the Middle East (Friday, 20 September 2024)

      The Middle East is on the brink. I extend my heartfelt sympathy with civilians in Lebanon and across the region who now live in fear. I call on all parties to show maximum restraint. To revert to diplomacy. To de-escalate. To find political solutions.

      Read more:

    • Norway’s statement at the UN Emergency Special Session on The International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion on the Israeli occupation. (Wednesday, 18 September 2024)

      The statement was delivered by Norway's Permanent Representative to the UN in New York, Ambassador Merete Brattested on September 17, 2024.

      Read more:

    • Uttalelse fra utenriksminister Espen Barth Eide om israelsk luftangrep i Gaza (Tuesday, 10 September 2024)

      'I condemn the Israeli airstrike this morning on a «safe zone» in Khan Younis. All parties have an obligation to protect civilians in warfare', said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister Kristiansen Tvinnereim on the attack on humanitarian workers in Gaza (Friday, 30 August 2024)

      I am shocked that a clearly marked UN vehicle was directly hit by gunfire while approaching an Israeli check point.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the situation in the occupied West Bank (Thursday, 29 August 2024)

      Amidst the ongoing horrors in Gaza, the situation in the occupied West Bank is extremely dangerous. The massive Israeli military operations in and around Jenin, Tulkarem and Tubas, escalate an already tense situation, with unforeseen consequences for the stability in the region.

      Read more:

    • Norway strongly opposes the recent Israeli statement on building a synagogue on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount (Wednesday, 28 August 2024)

      'Norway strongly opposes the recent statement by Israel's Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, that he wants to build a synagogue on the Haram al-Sharif/Temple Mount', said Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway's Representative Office in Palestine is closed until further notice (Friday, 16 August 2024)

      As a result of the Netanyahu government's decision to no longer facilitate Norway's representation to the Palestinian Authority, our Representative Office in Al Ram in Palestine must be closed as of today.

      Read more:

    • ‘Consequential for our relationship with the Netanyahu government’ (Thursday, 8 August 2024)

      ‘Today, we were informed by the Netanyahu government that they will no longer facilitate Norwegian diplomats’ work in Palestine. This is an extreme action that first and foremost affects our ability to help the Palestinian population. It shows once again that the Netanyahu government is actively working against a two-state solution', said Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway to increase its support for Palestine refugees (Friday, 12 July 2024)

      ‘After nine months of war, the situation for the population in Gaza is catastrophic. They lack everything. Many are starving. UNRWA is the backbone of all humanitarian efforts in Gaza. That is why Norway is now increasing its support by providing additional NOK 100 million to UNRWA,’ said Minister of Development Anne Beathe Kristiansen Tvinnereim.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide, on Israeli settlements (Thursday, 4 July 2024)

      The recent decisions by the Government of Israel to "legalize" five settlement outposts, to declare 12 700 dunams as “state lands”, and to advance the approval of 6016 housing units in dozens of settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, are totally unacceptable. Norway condemns these decisions, and we call on the Government of Israel to immediately reverse them.

      Read more:

    • Nordic statement calling for release of Palestinian clearance revenues and preservation of correspondent banking services between Israel and the West Bank (Wednesday, 3 July 2024)

      The Nordic countries are greatly concerned by the withholding of Palestinian clearance revenues which is exacerbating the strenuous fiscal situation of the Palestinian Authority.

      Read more:

    • Norway strongly opposes the lawsuit against UNRWA staff (Thursday, 27 June 2024)

      'We strongly oppose the attack on UNRWA and their staff, including the Norwegian diplomat who previously served as Deputy Commissioner-General of the agency. The accusations against individuals coincide with a politically motivated campaign aimed at weakening the agency', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway increasing its support to UNRWA (Monday, 17 June 2024)

      ‘UNRWA is the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. The war, accusations made by Israel, continuous attacks on the organisation and funds withheld by major donors, have put UNRWA in an extremely difficult financial situation. In this context, it is of importance that Norway is increasing our support by NOK 100 million,’ said Minister of International development Anne Beathe Kristiansen Tvinnereim.

      Read more:

    • Remarks by the Prime Minister at the Summit on Peace in Ukraine (Sunday, 16 June 2024)

      'We have to maintain this unity of so many states. And you can count on us. Norway will be supporting Ukraine, your right to defence, but also in your civil areas. We have today unleashed a package to support your rebuilding of electricity systems', said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Humanitarian conference sends clear message: suffering in Gaza must cease (Thursday, 13 June 2024)

      ‘The message to everyone who participated in the humanitarian conference for Gaza is clear: we must find solutions that end the suffering, and in the longer term, we must focus on rebuilding Gaza,’ said Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim.

      Read more:

    • Address to the Storting on the security policy situation (Thursday, 13 June 2024)

      'First, effective security policy begins at home: we must start by ensuring that our own house is in order. This is why we are now making historic investments in our own defence and upgrading our defence capabilities', said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on Gaza (Saturday, 1 June 2024)

      I welcome the efforts for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, presented by President Biden.

      Read more:

    • Why we recognized the state of Palestine (Friday, 31 May 2024)

      Only a two-state solution can provide security, prosperity and hope for the people of both Israel and Palestine.

      Read more:

    • Norway recognises Palestine today (Tuesday, 28 May 2024)

      ‘For over 30 years, Norway has been one of the strongest advocates of a Palestinian state. Norway’s recognition of Palestine as a state today represents a milestone in Norwegian-Palestinian relations,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Opening statement by Minister Eide at meeting on Implement the Two-State solution (Tuesday, 28 May 2024)

      Opening statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Espen Barth Eide at meeting on 'Efforts to Implement the Two-State solution, including the question of recognition', Brussels, 26 May 2024.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide: Broad international agreement to strengthen Palestinian institutions and promote the two-state solution (Sunday, 26 May 2024)

      The critical situation in Palestine was the topic when Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide chaired two ministerial meetings on Palestine in Brussels today.

      Read more:

    • Norway contributes NOK 100 million in budget support to Palestine (Friday, 24 May 2024)

      ‘The financial situation for the Palestinian Authority is acute. They need money to pay for basic services, such as health and education, for the population. Therefore, Norway is now transferring NOK 100 million in budget support’, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • The Norwegian Prime Minister's introduction to the press conference on recognition of Palestine (Wednesday, 22 May 2024)

      ´There will be no peace in the Middle East without a two-state solution. There can be no two-state solution without a Palestinian state. In other words: a Palestinian state is a prerequisite for achieving peace in the Middle East´, said Prime Minister Støre.

      Read more:

    • Norway recognises Palestine as a state (Wednesday, 22 May 2024)

      ‘The Norwegian Government has decided that Norway will recognise Palestine as a state. In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike: Two states, living side by side, in peace and security,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Strong Norwegian support for Red Cross hospital in Gaza (Tuesday, 14 May 2024)

      Together with Secretary General of the Norwegian Red Cross Anne Bergh, Minister for Development Cooperation Anne Beathe Kristiansen Tvinnereim, has received a briefing on the newly opened field hospital in Rafah. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has contributed NOK 30 million to the hospital.

      Read more:

    • Strong warning against a military operation in Rafah (Tuesday, 14 May 2024)

      Gaza is a manmade disaster. Words cannot describe the suffering of the 2.3 million people of Gaza, who have endured extremely difficult circumstances during the past seven months. Despite the many calls from the international community, Israel maintains that a large-scale military operation is imminent, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.,

      Read more:

    • Norway votes in support of granting Palestine full membership status in the UN (Friday, 10 May 2024)

      The resolution states that Palestine is fully qualified for membership in the United Nations and recommends that the Security Council reconsiders the matter favourably. Pending the approval of such membership, the resolution, which was adopted by a vote of 143 to 9, with 25 abstentions, provides Palestine with stronger rights and status within the UN. Norway was a co-sponsor of the resolution.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on attacks on UNRWA (Friday, 10 May 2024)

      ‘I am shocked by attacks on UNRWA 's head quarter in East Jerusalem‘.

      Read more:

    • 'Expect more from both parties' (Monday, 6 May 2024)

    • Statement on the efforts for a two-state solution (Monday, 29 April 2024)

      Statement by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide at meeting on the efforts for a two-state solution, including the recognition of the Palestinian State, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 29 April 2024.

      Read more:

    • Uttalelse fra utenriksminister Espen Barth Eide om bosettervold på Vestbredden (Wednesday, 24 April 2024)

      I am deeply alarmed by the recent surge in settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. Civilians are killed, homes and private property have been destroyed, and entire communities have been uprooted.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide on the report of the Commission of Inquiry into the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) (Tuesday, 23 April 2024)

      I welcome the report of the Independent Commission of Inquiry, chaired byby Catherine Colonna, on UNRWA's handling of neutrality issues, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement on schools in Gaza (Thursday, 18 April 2024)

      All schools in Gaza have been closed for 625,000 students for 6 months. Norway is deeply troubled that nearly 90% of schools in Gaza are damaged or destroyed.

      Read more:

    • Remarks from the Norwegian Prime Minister after Iran’s attack on Israel (Sunday, 14 April 2024)

      Norway condems Iran’s illegal and dangerous attack on Israel.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the attacks against Israel (Sunday, 14 April 2024)

    • Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on possible attacks against Israel (Saturday, 13 April 2024)

      I am deeply troubled by reports on possible attacks against Israel. We call upon all parties to exercise restraint and avoid escalation. Norway has condemned the attack on the Iranian consulate in Damascus. It is imperative that international law is respected and all civilians protected.

      Read more:

    • Meeting between Prime Minister Støre and President Sánchez on the war in Gaza (Friday, 12 April 2024)

      Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and President of the Government of Spain Pedro Sánchez met on Friday to discuss a range of issues including the war in Gaza.

      Read more:

    • Six months since Hamas attacked Israel, six months of crisis (Sunday, 7 April 2024)

      Rarely have six months been filled with so much unimaginable pain, anger and grief as the time following the terrorist attack on 7 October last year. For six months, Israeli families have been mourning the losses they suffered when Hamas killed more than 1,100 Israelis and took 250 hostages. Families still live in fear of what has happened to those of the hostages still in Gaza. 

      Read more:

    • Norway condemns the recent attack against the diplomatic premises of Iran in Damascus (Thursday, 4 April 2024)

      Diplomatic premises and diplomatic and consular staff enjoy a special status under international law and must be protected.

      Read more:

    • Statement from Minister of Foreign Affairs Eide on attacks in Gaza (Tuesday, 2 April 2024)

      ‘I condemn the destruction of the Shifa hospital. Shifa has been the main hospital in Gaza. According to reports, hundreds of people have died as a result of the destruction, and the material damage is enormous,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Remarks from the Norwegian Prime Minister on the UN Security Council resolution (Monday, 25 March 2024)

      Remarks from Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre on the UN Security Council resolution.

      Read more:

    • Ten ways in which Norway is working to improve the situation for the Palestinian people (Tuesday, 19 March 2024)

      ‘The situation in Gaza is a man-made disaster. Israel's use of military force is having a disproportionately severe impact on the civilian population and is not in line with international humanitarian law. There is an urgent need for a ceasefire and to deliver more life-saving humanitarian aid to the population,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on appointment of new Palestinian Prime Minister (Friday, 15 March 2024)

      'My best wishes to Mohammad Mustafa, who was just appointed Palestinian Prime Minister,' says Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Government is advising against trade and business activity with Israeli settlements (Thursday, 14 March 2024)

      The Government is reiterating its position on Israel’s settlement policy on occupied land by advising Norwegian companies not to engage in business cooperation or trade that serves to perpetuate the illegal Israeli settlements.

      Read more:

    • The World needs to stand by UNRWA (Monday, 4 March 2024)

      After nearly four months of war, the situation in Gaza is catastrophic. More than 75 percent of the area’s population of more than two million are displaced. Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed, many of them children. The United Nations warns that famine is imminent. Infectious diseases are spreading. The lack of health care is critical.

      Read more:

    • The Palestinian Authority has received crucial financial transfers from Israel (Thursday, 29 February 2024)

      ‘I am pleased that the Palestinian Authority this week received several major transfers from Israel with Palestinian clearance revenues. These funds are necessary to ensure that the Palestinian Authority does not collapse, that Palestinians receive vital services, and that teachers and health workers are getting their salaries’, said Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Prevents the possibility of a two-state solution (Wednesday, 28 February 2024)

      ‘The Israeli occupation and the illegal Israeli settlements are the biggest obstacles to a two-state solution, which is the only solution to the conflict between Israel and Palestine’, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway assists in scheme for crucial financial transfers from Israel to Palestine (Sunday, 18 February 2024)

      Norway is facilitating an arrangement that will enable the Palestinian Authority to receive clearance revenues that Israel collects on its behalf. In the wake of the terrorist attack by Hamas on 7 October, the situation between the parties has been deadlocked. The temporary scheme will play a crucial role in preventing the Palestinian Authority from collapsing financially.

      Read more:

    • Comments by the Prime Minister at the Munich Security Conference at the panel “Towards Stability and Peace in the Middle East: De-escalation Challenge" (Saturday, 17 February 2024)

      «Are we served or are people in the region served by seeing the PA collapse? I think not. So, Norway has been working now, and I hope we will be able to succeed soon, to have a kind of an intermediate role to get the tax money transferred to the PA”, said Prime Minister Støre.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide warning against aground operation in Rafah (Tuesday, 13 February 2024)

      ‘I reiterate my strong warning against a ground operation in Rafah. There are no safe places left in Gaza,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway providing NOK 275 million to United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) (Wednesday, 7 February 2024)

      ‘The war in Gaza started four months ago today. The situation is catastrophic. There is a shortage of all essential items and people are facing daily threats to their lives and safety. UNRWA is the backbone of humanitarian efforts in Gaza. I am pleased that we are able to transfer NOK 275 million today to the organisation’s efforts to assist Palestine refugees,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Opening address by the Prime Minister at Leangkollen Security Conference (Monday, 5 February 2024)

      “I believe that the notion of deterrence and reassurance is the right equation. But what matters is that the deterrence has to be credible. We have to make it credible in the way we invest, train and exercise our responsibility. The reassurance point for me is really about how we are recognisable, long-term and predictable”, said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

      Read more:

    • Uttalelse fra utenriksminister Espen Barth Eide om FNs hjelpeorganisasjon for palestinske flyktninger (UNRWA) (Sunday, 28 January 2024)

      Statement by Norway’s minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Espen Barth Eide, on the UN Works and Relief Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

      Read more:

    • Statement from the Minister of Foreign Affairs on the International Court of Justice's order (Friday, 26 January 2024)

      The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague today announced an order in South Africa's case against Israel.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs on the Situation in the Middle East (Wednesday, 24 January 2024)

      Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Espen Barth Eide in the Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.

      Read more:

    • The situation in the Red Sea (Friday, 5 January 2024)

      ‘We are facing a very serious situation in the Red Sea. For the first time, ballistic anti-ship missiles have been used against civilian vessels. These are very advanced weapons systems. The indiscriminate attacks by the Houthi movement are unacceptable. Crews and innocent parties are exposed to mortal danger and suffer great economic and material losses’, said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • New Year Speech 2024 (Monday, 1 January 2024)

      Good evening everyone, the turn of the year is a time to take stock. Of the year that is now behind us, and the year that is to come. And let’s be honest. For many of us, 2023 has been a year where we have had to contend with forces that were beyond our control, forces that left us feeling anxious and vulnerable.

      Read more:

  • 2023

    • International ministerial meeting in Oslo on the war in Gaza (Friday, 15 December 2023)

      ‘This meeting in Oslo has taken place against an extremely serious and dramatic backdrop. Tomorrow, it will be 10 weeks since Hamas’s horrific terrorist attack. Close to 19 000 people have been killed in Gaza, nearly half of them children. The scale of destruction is enormous. More than 100 hostages are still being held in Gaza. At the meeting today, there was broad agreement on the gravity of the situation and the need for peace,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Foreign ministers from Middle East, Nordic region and Benelux countries in Oslo Friday 15 for high-level meeting on Gaza (Friday, 15 December 2023)

      ‘I look forward to bringing these countries together for an open and frank discussion about the war in Gaza. While the countries that will be taking part in the meeting are affected to varying degrees, they all share a deep concern about the people of Gaza. There is an urgent need to stop the war and bring an end to the enormous suffering in Gaza,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Condemning attack on Norwegian ship in the Red Sea (Thursday, 14 December 2023)

    • Norway urges the Security Council to act in Gaza (Friday, 8 December 2023)

      Yesterday, the UN Secretary-General sent a letter to the Security Council in which he explicitly invokes Article 99 of the UN Charter. Article 99 gives the Secretary-General the authority to bring to the attention of the Security Council situations he believes threaten the maintenance of international peace and security.

      Read more:

    • Deeply regret that the ceasefire in Gaza is not continued (Friday, 1 December 2023)

      'There has been unimaginable suffering for far too long in Gaza. The extensive warfare we have witnessed has taken a severe toll on the civilian population’, said Norway’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway to increase support for the Palestinians (Friday, 24 November 2023)

      In response to the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, the Norwegian Government has proposed to increase support for the Palestinian people by NOK 470 million. This will bring Norway’s total support to the Palestinians in 2023 to more than NOK 1.5 billion.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister welcomes a temporary ceasefire in Gaza (Wednesday, 22 November 2023)

      'Norway welcomes the agreement on a temporary humanitarian ceasefire and the release of hostages from Gaza. Both are crucial', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister talking to Qatar’s Prime Minister (Friday, 17 November 2023)

      'I discussed with Qatar’s Prime Minister Al Thani Foreign Minister the need for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza', said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister meeting Ambassadors from Organization of Islamic States (Friday, 17 November 2023)

      'I invited OIC ambassadors to discuss the situation in Gaza and the war between Israel and Hamas', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister talking to Israel’s Foreign Minister (Wednesday, 15 November 2023)

      'I spoke with Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen on the war between Israel and Hamas. Strongly condemned the heinous terror attack against Israel on 7 October. Expressed Norway’s concern for the situation in Gaza', said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister talking to Philippe Lazzarini (Tuesday, 14 November 2023)

      'Expressing my sincere condolences to UNRWA’s Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini for the more than 100 UNRWA staff that have been killed since 7 October', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Meeting between Prime Minister Støre and Palestinian Prime Minister Shtayyeh (Friday, 10 November 2023)

      Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre met with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh in Paris today. The discussions revolved around the critical humanitarian situation in Gaza and the worrying developments on the West Bank.

      Read more:

    • Norway participates in humanitarian conference for the people of Gaza (Thursday, 9 November 2023)

      State Secretary Bjørg Sandkjær is representing Norway at the humanitarian conference in support of the people of Gaza on November 9 in Paris.

      Read more:

    • Norway steps up efforts to combat anti-Semitism (Wednesday, 8 November 2023)

      Jews in Norway continue to experience hostile attitudes and anti-Semitism, and in recent weeks the extent of these incidents has increased in the wake of the war in Gaza. The Government has now announced a new action plan against anti-Semitism that will be presented next year.

      Read more:

    • One day, the war between Israel and Hamas will be over (Wednesday, 8 November 2023)

      One day, the war between Israel and Hamas will come to an end. And when that happens, Israelis and Palestinians will need to re-engage in the essential question of what could constitute a peaceful settlement between them. But with each passing day of bombing, blockade, rocket attacks and hostages not released, it becomes more and more difficult to resume the process towards a two-state solution.

      Read more:

    • The Minister of Foreign Affairs visited the synagogue in Oslo (Tuesday, 7 November 2023)

      Jews in Norway experience hostile attitudes and anti-Semitism, and in recent weeks the extent has increased in the wake of the crisis in the Middle East. The Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs visited the synagogue in Oslo today to express his sympathy and emphasize that the government will do what it can to ensure that the crisis in the Middle East does not increase divisions in Norway.

      Read more:

    • Prime Minister Støre spoke with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi (Sunday, 5 November 2023)

      On Saturday afternoon, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre had a telephone conversation with Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi as part of Norway’s contact with the countries and parties in the Middle East.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide talking with Israel’s National Security Adviser (Saturday, 4 November 2023)

      'I had good phone conversation with Isarel’s National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi. I emphasized the urgent need to secure the release of the hostages that were taken on 7 October', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement on the Middle Eastern Peace Process (Friday, 3 November 2023)

      Statement by Permanent Representative Ambassador Merete Fjeld Brattested, at the Emergency Special Session on the Middle Eastern Peace Process.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide talking with Palestine's Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh (Thursday, 2 November 2023)

      'In a phone call with PM Shtayyeh, I expressed my deepest condolences for all civilians killed and injured over the last few weeks. Norway has called for de-escalating the conflict and humanitarian truce to protect and assist civilians in Gaza. I stressed the need for assistance to get Norwegian nationals out safely', said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway increases support to Palestinian children (Thursday, 2 November 2023)

      UNICEF receives NOK 25 million for its work for children in Gaza. The funding is part of the NOK 200 million contribution from Norway towards the humanitarian efforts in Gaza.

      Read more:

    • Dialogue meeting with religious and life stance communities (Wednesday, 1 November 2023)

      On Wednesday, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Children and Families Kjersti Toppe held a dialogue meeting with representatives of various Norwegian religious and life stance communities. The topic of discussion was the situation in the Middle East and the effects this is having on Norway.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Eide discussed the critical situation in Gaza with Prince Faisal bin Farhan (Tuesday, 31 October 2023)

      In the conversation, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide underlined the importance of de-escalating the conflict, including a humanitarian truce to protect and assist civilians.

      Read more:

    • The Situation in the Middle East (Wednesday, 25 October 2023)

      Statement by Ambassador Merete Fjeld Brattested in the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, 24 October 2023.

      Read more:

    • Statement on Israel and Palestine (Wednesday, 25 October 2023)

      As Chair of AHLC (Ad Hoc Liaison Committee) donor group, Norway hosted a virtual meeting with our international partners today to discuss the crisis in Israel and Palestine.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister at Gaza summit in Cairo: ‘Urgent help needed in Gaza’ (Saturday, 21 October 2023)

      ‘Getting sufficient humanitarian aid into Gaza is urgent. In addition, we must prevent the conflict between Israel and Hamas from escalating further and having serious regional consequences. If there is to be a lasting peace, we must think beyond weapons. Even now, in the middle of this conflict, we must think about what will happen afterwards,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Norway increases support to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (Saturday, 21 October 2023)

      ‘It gives hope that a first convoy of emergency aid has entered Gaza today. It is urgent to get food, water and medicine to civilians. The situation in Gaza is turning into a humanitarian catastrophe. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) does important and lifesaving work in Gaza. We are now expanding Norwegian support by NOK 60 million,’ Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide said.

      Read more:

    • ‘Civilians must be protected’ (Wednesday, 18 October 2023)

      ‘I am shocked and deeply disturbed by the killing of hundreds of people at the Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza last night. Such an attack on sick people, children, healthcare workers and other civilians is intolerable. I wish to express my profound condolences to the many victims and their families,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide following reports of air strike on Gaza hospital (Tuesday, 17 October 2023)

    • Foreign Minister Eide spoke with Egypt's Foreign Minister about Gaza (Tuesday, 17 October 2023)

      ‘Good talk with Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry today. I commended Egypt's efforts to de-escalate the situation & avoid further regional tensions,' Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Huitfeldt discussed the situation in Gaza with Egypt's Foreign Minister (Sunday, 15 October 2023)

      ‘Important talk with my friend Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry about Gaza, urgency of vital humanitarian access, how to use donor group AHLC in this situation, and need for political horizon’, Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Huitfeldt spoke with Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen (Saturday, 14 October 2023)

      ‘I just spoke with Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen. I told him about the moving memorial ceremony I attended last night at the Synagogue in Oslo,’ Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

      Read more:

    • Norway increasing support for civilian population in Gaza (Friday, 13 October 2023)

      ‘There are horrific images and tragic accounts coming out of Gaza now. The scale of suffering and destruction is enormous. According to the UN, almost 500 children have been killed. This is completely unacceptable. Norway is now providing an additional NOK 70 million in humanitarian support for the civilian population in Gaza,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.

      Read more:

    • Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt on the situation in Israel and Palestine (Thursday, 12 October 2023)

      I am deeply alarmed by the dramatic escalation in Israel and Gaza. The high number of people killed and injured is shocking. It is heartbreaking that hundreds of children have lost their lives in recent days, said Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt.

      Read more:

    • Prime Minister Støre´s address to the Storting on the situation in the Middle East (Wednesday, 11 October 2023)

      Mr President, like so many people in Norway and across the world, I am deeply shocked by the appalling terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel. I would like to convey my deepest sympathy – and that of the Government – to the victims. And to everyone who has lost loved ones, to those who have experienced violence, murder and abuse, and to those who are now living with the uncertainty of what will happen next.

      Read more:

    • Norway to help citizens to fly home (Wednesday, 11 October 2023)

      Norway is now arranging for an aircraft to transport Norwegian citizens home from Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Huitfeldt discussed the situation in Israel with EUs Josep Borrell (Monday, 9 October 2023)

      ‘Talked with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell Fontelles, about the horrifying terror attacks by Hamas which have shocked the world to its core,’ Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

      Read more:

    • Foreign Minister Huitfeldt spoke with Egypt's Foreign Minister about Gaza (Monday, 9 October 2023)

      ‘Just got off the phone with Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry. Expressed Norway’s condemnation of Hamas horrific attacks on Israeli civilians,’ Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

      Read more: