doing nothing; folding one's arms
Idiomatic expression meaning to stand by without taking action, often with a nuance of passive observation or neglect. Literally 'with hands folded'.
Even when he saw his friend in trouble, he folded his arms and did nothing.
Although the government recognizes the problem, it is just standing by with folded arms.
From the literal action of folding one's arms, implying inactivity or passive observation.