Smotrich: No Transfer of Tax Funds to the Palestinian Authority This Month Either

Translation by SadaNews - Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich decided on Monday not to transfer tax revenues to the Palestinian Authority for the current month.

According to a statement from the Israeli Ministry of Finance, a total amount exceeding 740 million shekels has been allocated, of which around 590 million shekels is earmarked for repaying the Palestinian Authority's debts to the electricity, water, and environmental companies, in addition to funds that the Authority had designated to transfer to what it describes as "terrorist" groups.

It pointed out that the remaining amount has been frozen for nearly a year according to Smotrich's policy of not transferring any funds to the Palestinian Authority due to its activities against the State of Israel in the international arena and its support for "terrorism," according to its claims.

Smotrich stated: "We will not transfer money that will ultimately go to (terrorists) who harm Israeli citizens."

He added: "Our policy is clear: any shekel used to encourage "terrorism" or any hostile activity will be deducted and stopped."

He continued: "We act responsibly to ensure that this money is directed towards protecting the vital interests of the State of Israel, and those who choose to fight the State of Israel in the international arena and support "terrorism" will pay the price."