Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has ordered the confiscation of 100 million shekels (approximately $26 million) from tax revenues designated for the Palestinian Authority (PA). This action, stated to be a counter-terrorism measure, aims to redirect the funds to compensate Israeli victims of terrorism.
The finance ministry highlights that this is the fifth instance of withholding funds collected on behalf of the PA, citing the PA’s financial support to families of Palestinians involved in acts against Israel as a cause. These funds, according to Smotrich, support the so-called “pay for slay” stipends, which the PA provides to imprisoned terrorists and the families of those killed during confrontations with Israel.
This ongoing strategy is part of Israel’s broader approach to suppress potential pathways toward Palestinian statehood, bolstered by increased settlement activities in the West Bank.
The decision to seize Palestinian tax funds follows a pattern of similar actions in recent years where Israel has withheld funds from the PA. This strategy is often justified by Israeli officials as a deterrent against Palestinian actions perceived as hostile. The ongoing conflict and political strategies, including the withholding of funds, exacerbate tensions in the region.
