Israel has approved a new payment exceeding $140 million to the Palestinian Authority after releasing funds previously frozen due to the Gaza war. Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had withheld payments of customs and tax duties since the conflict began.
The government made a $116 million payment for duties collected for April and May and approved an additional payment of about $140 million for June. The funds collected by Israel account for 60% of the Palestinian Authority’s revenues.
Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa confirmed the payment would be used for unpaid wages for civil servants. Despite this payment, Israel still owes $6 billion in back payments.
The Palestinian death toll from Israel’s war on Gaza has exceeded 38,000, with Hamas in control of Gaza since 2007. Israeli media reports suggest the new payments were made under a deal recognizing settlements in the West Bank.
The Daily Sabah Newsletter
Keep up to date with what’s happening in Turkey,
it’s region and the world.
You can unsubscribe at any time. By signing up you are agreeing to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.