Israel has approved over $140 million in new payments to the Palestinian Authority, following the unblocking of funds frozen due to the Gaza war. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had withheld customs and tax duties during the conflict with Hamas but has now released these funds.
The Palestinian Authority heavily relies on these payments, which make up 60% of their revenues. Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa confirmed the receipt of $116 million for April and May, with an additional $130 million approved for June. The money will go towards unpaid wages for civil servants and suppliers.
Despite these payments, Israel still owes the authority billions of shekels in back payments. The decision to release the funds comes after a halt due to Hamas attacks and a controversial transfer of funds to Israeli victims of terrorism.
The move signifies a complex relationship between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, with political implications and concessions involved in the payment agreements.