Antalya:Head of the Environment Quality Authority, Zaghloul Samhan, highlighted the severe challenges faced by the Palestinian transport sector due to Israeli occupation measures during a panel discussion at the COP31 conference in Antalya, Turkey.

According to Palestine news & Information Agency, Samhan criticized the restrictions imposed by the occupation, which are severely limiting urban expansion and infrastructure development in Palestinian cities and villages. He described how these measures are suffocating mobility and highlighted the complete destruction of Gaza's transport sector, including its roads, vehicles, and ports.

Samhan proposed several recommendations for improving urban mobility, such as integrated planning, inclusive transport projects, and innovative national solutions. He also emphasized the importance of sharing expertise among OIC Member States. Despite the adversities, Palestine is reportedly advancing its transport sector through national plans aimed at promoting public transport, increasing the use of electric vehicles, and enhancing regulatory frameworks.

The session was part of an event organized by SESRIC in collaboration with the OIC, focusing on moving cities towards a climate-ready future.