Ramallah - October 20, 2025. The Media Committee for Combating Smuggling at Crossings and Borders, comprised of representatives from the Ministry of Interior, the Prime Minister's Office, the Customs Police, the Ministry of Transport, and the Border Crossings Authority, held a working meeting with His Excellency the Minister of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Najm. The meeting was attended by Undersecretary of the Ministry, Mr. Hussam Abu al-Rub, and a number of department directors. The meeting discussed ways of cooperation and integration between the Ministry of Awqaf and relevant authorities in combating the phenomenon of smuggling and promoting a culture of adherence to laws and regulations, thus preserving the national economy and protecting society from the risks posed by these practices.
During the meeting, the importance of the awareness-raising role the Ministry of Endowments can play in this area was emphasized. Religious guides accompanying pilgrims and Umrah performers should guide and educate them about the dangers of smuggling and the risk of being exploited by smugglers. Mosque preachers and imams should also deliver awareness messages to worshippers during Friday sermons and religious lessons, as well as Quran teachers in Quranic schools, to instill values ​​and adherence to the law. The attendees agreed to continue joint coordination between the Media Committee and the Ministry of Endowments to expand awareness and develop media and religious content that contributes to reducing smuggling and fostering a sense of national responsibility among citizens.