Israel Hayom: Sharp Clash Between Netanyahu and Smotrich Over Palestinian Authority

Translation by SadaNews - Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom reported on Thursday evening that a sharp confrontation took place between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich over Netanyahu's intention to extend the arrangement that allows the transfer of funds to the Palestinian Authority through Israeli banks.

According to the newspaper, as translated by SadaNews, Netanyahu requested to transfer the authority to another minister to approve the arrangements under American pressure.

The report indicated that Smotrich strongly opposed this and threatened to resign, a threat that could have toppled the government, according to the newspaper.

It noted that as a result, Netanyahu backed down and will not present the decision to the cabinet for a vote.