Brand new luxury ICON mall opens in Ramallah -  Gazans are fuming with anger and jealousy 

The grand opening of the largest shopping mall this past weekend in the Arab-controlled area of Judea and Samaria drew sharp criticism, as Palestinians across the region slammed the festive event as a display of moral insensitivity amid the ongoing war in Gaza.

As Channel 11 reported, after years of construction, the ICON Mall, located in the heart of Ramallah, finally opened. It offers a sleek and modern shopping and entertainment experience for the whole family. Israeli-Arabs are also drawn to see what all the fuss is about.

Designed as a vibrant hub for leisure and lifestyle, the mall boasts more than 165 stores, including international franchises, local boutiques, and specialty shops. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The mall also features state-of-the-art movie theaters, lively event spaces, and a colorful indoor play park (jimboree) for children, making it a one-stop destination for retail, relaxation, and family fun.

While dignitaries and shoppers celebrated with music, lights, and ribbon-cutting, many viewed the celebration as an affront to the suffering of Gazans not so many miles away.

Many Gazans on social media expressed their disgust. One Gazan had this to say: "Here in Gaza we're dying of hunger and are being destroyed! Are you not ashamed of yourselves people of Ramallah? Gaza is being destroyed and you are dancing in the new mall on the blood of Gazan?

Laila Ghannam, the governor of Ramllah, stated at the opening: "If it wasn't for our people, we wouldn't be standing here today: Allah should have mercy on our martyrs, and on our dear prisoners, many of whom are here today."

In response, one Gazan had this to say: "Laila Ghannam! You've opened up a mall? Now you're happy? Trying to market us national unity? Where's the blood? Where's the honor? Not a drop of humanity?"