Comprehensive strike paralyses life in the occupied West Bank

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A comprehensive strike in protest at recent price-hikes of fuel and other essential commodities has hit life in the occupied West Bank. Protesters closed all main streets in major West Bank towns and cities, with burning tyres blocking the way.

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Protests began last week with two-hour strikes by public service vehicle drivers on Thursday morning and evening, which triggered a series of marches and protests for the fifth day by different trade unions all over the West Bank. Monday’s protest was the most significant to-date as all of the transport unions took part, freezing the flow of life for public and private institutions.

The protests were aimed at Prime Minister Salam Fayyad of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority. Warnings were given that strike action would intensify if the current economic policies of Fayyad’s government continue.

Observers and Palestinian parliamentarians pointed out that the PA’s continuous normalisation with the Israeli occupation authorities, as well as carrying out the diktats of the Paris Economic Protocol (PEP), will worsen the situation. They called for the Palestinian Authority to modify the PEP in an attempt to improve the economic situation.

MEMO Photographer: Ibtehal Mansour