Bank of Palestine, by remaining open and operational throughout the war, and by standing firm in its refusal to close its branches under the pretext of protecting its clients, visitors, and employees, has shown an act of heroism and a respectable, commendable decision. This took place under extremely dangerous and complex circumstances that everyone is well aware of—amid almost non-existent resources and a complete absence of safety and security.
To threaten the bank or open fire at it, or to intimidate its employees with weapons and thuggery—this is nothing short of cowardly and vile. Only gangs of mercenaries, thieves, and outlaws engage in such acts. It is a grotesque continuation of the lawlessness that currently plagues Gaza, and only serves to deepen the suffering and pain of the people.
The brave employees of Bank of Palestine continue to operate as the only national banking institution still functioning, serving as a pillar of financial security for our people everywhere. All other banks in Gaza have shut their doors since the early days of the war, and their clients are still struggling just to complete the most basic transactions. That situation may be justifiable given the wartime context.
However, for Bank of Palestine to voluntarily shoulder the responsibility of continuing to serve individuals, businesses, charities, merchants, and salary earners—handling both local and international transfers—is a truly remarkable act. It now stands as Gaza’s last financial safety valve, its only remaining window to the outside world.
We must all work to protect, support, and secure this bank—not destroy it, terrorize it, or shut it down.
I know, through friends within and outside the bank, that over 90% of humanitarian cash aid—including water, food parcels, hot meals, and various emergency relief projects—is being processed through Bank of Palestine. It also handles all financial transactions between funders, suppliers, and implementing organizations, helping to overcome the dire cash shortage.
The bank had no role whatsoever in the disappearance of cash or its alleged smuggling out of Gaza, nor was it in any way connected to the bombing of its headquarters in Gaza and the north, which resulted in the martyrdom of some of its loyal staff, including my dear friend and neighbor, Ihab Harara.
What’s happening to the bank—or to any remaining institutions still trying to serve the people—is nothing but a vile attempt to distort the truth, and divert attention from the real reasons behind the collapse of Gaza, the devastation, and the unbearable suffering we now endure.
I urge the respected leadership of the bank to not allow Gaza’s enemies—internal or external—to win, and to not let this cowardly attack, or any future foolish acts, affect their firm and noble position toward our people and their refusal to shut down under any circumstances.
May the bank continue to serve the people with resolve and confidence.
May God ease the pain of our beloved people and spare them more grief and anguish.
Hasbunallah wa ni’mal wakeel.
