Palestinian Authority Deputy Meets US Ambassador in Ramallah

Palestinian Authority deputy leader Hussein al-Sheikh met with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee in Ramallah, marking the first official meeting between the Palestinian leadership and a Republican-appointed U.S. ambassador in years. The discussion focused on urgent regional issues, including efforts to end the Gaza war, the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza amid worsening conditions. They also addressed the severe economic and financial crises facing the Palestinian Authority, as well as ongoing violence by Israeli settlers in the West Bank. This meeting signals a pragmatic shift in the PA's approach toward the Trump administration's envoy, contrasting with the previous boycott of Ambassador David Friedman due to his strong pro-Israel and settlement-supporting stance. Both officials explored ways to strengthen bilateral relations and emphasized the critical role of American leadership in promoting stability, security, and peace in the region. The meeting comes amid growing concern over the PA’s political and economic viability, with Ramallah seeking renewed international support to prevent further deterioration.