Minister of Interior Ziad Hab Al-Reeh chaired a meeting of the Economic Security Team today, in the presence of the Head of the Water Authority, Dr. Ziad Al-Mimi, and the Commander of the Customs Police, Major General Iyad Barakat, who also heads the Economic Security Team. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation among partner agencies in protecting public funds, particularly by continuing efforts to stop encroachments on water lines and ensure water access for citizens. The team also discussed ongoing efforts to halt encroachments on public and government lands and combat economic crimes.

Minister Hab Al-Reeh emphasized that protecting public funds and enforcing the law are government priorities. He stressed that there will be zero tolerance for any encroachment on public property, especially water sources, main transmission lines, and distribution networks, given their vital importance to citizens' lives. He affirmed the necessity of taking legal action against violators in accordance with the law. He also emphasized that protecting the water sector requires cooperation among relevant authorities, maintaining infrastructure, and preventing any practices that affect the equitable distribution of water and the sustainability of its services. He also stressed the importance of continuing efforts to combat tax and customs evasion and to enhance integration between security agencies and relevant institutions, thereby contributing to the protection of the national economy and the preservation of public revenues.

For his part, the Head of the Palestinian Water Authority, Dr. Ziad Al-Mimi, affirmed that protecting water resources and water infrastructure is a fundamental aspect of safeguarding public funds. He noted that the Water Authority continues to implement programs for developing and rehabilitating water networks and main transmission lines, addressing attacks and thefts targeting them, and reducing water loss. This aims to preserve water resources, enhance service efficiency, and ensure equitable and sustainable access to water for all citizens.

Major General Iyad Barakat reviewed the most prominent efforts undertaken by the Customs Police and the Economic Security Team in various governorates, as well as the ongoing measures to protect public funds and support efforts to stop encroachments on public facilities. He also highlighted the strengthening of field oversight and the fight against smuggling and tax and customs evasion, emphasizing the team's readiness to provide support and assistance, and to raise the level of coordination and rapid response with various partners, thereby strengthening the rule of law and preserving the resources of the Palestinian people. At the conclusion of the meeting, the participants stressed the importance of continuing integrated work between the various official institutions, intensifying efforts to protect public funds, strengthening the rule of law, and preserving the resources of the Palestinian people.