Smotrich Doubles Deductions: Electricity as a New Gateway to Drain Palestinian Funds

SadaNews Economy Translation - Israeli Army Radio reported that after freezing Palestinian tax funds, Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich is working to compensate for hundreds of millions of shekels in additional charges for the electricity supplied by Israel to the Palestinian Authority. Until recently, Israel was collecting 35 million shekels in some areas based on estimated electricity amounts due to security restrictions.

The occupation radio continued: "In recent months, under Smotrich’s orders, the electricity company has begun to measure electricity usage accurately using technological means, resulting in an increase in electricity usage to approximately 50-70 million shekels per month, and it is expected to reach hundreds of millions annually."

It added: "A few months ago, it was announced that an arrangement had been reached allowing deductions from the Palestinian Authority's funds despite Israel's freezing of tax funds, about one billion shekels annually, equivalent to about 65% of the Palestinian Authority's budget. Now, the deductions will increase, and even if Israel lifts the freeze on the funds, the Palestinian Authority will receive a smaller amount than before."