Oslo: Norway's finance minister announced a renewed review of the country's sovereign wealth fund investments in Israeli companies due to worsening developments in Palestine. The decision comes as concerns grow over the situation in Gaza and the West Bank.

According to Anadolu Agency, Jens Stoltenberg, Norway's finance minister, stated that he would request Norway's central bank, Norges Bank, and the Ethics Council to reassess the fund's investments. This move is aimed at ensuring that the Government Pension Fund Global, also known as the Oil Fund, remains free from financial ties to companies potentially violating international law.

Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of the review to prevent investments in companies contributing to the illegal occupation of the West Bank and ongoing conflict in Gaza. He highlighted the need to align the fund's investments with international legal standards.

The Israeli army's offensive in Gaza, ongoing since October 7, 2023, has led to significant casualties, with nearly 61,000 Palestinians killed, including a large number of women and children. The military actions have severely impacted the region, pushing it to the brink of a humanitarian crisis.

In response to these developments, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.