Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has made a significant decision to seize 130 million shekels from Palestinian Authority tax revenues and donate the funds to 28 families of terror victims. This unprecedented move will pave the way for the implementation of court verdicts on compensation payments to victims of terrorist activities that have previously gone unfulfilled for years.
This groundbreaking action comes after multiple court verdicts, which obligate the Palestinian Authority to pay compensation to victims of terror attacks, were never implemented. Despite these legal decisions, the families of victims have not received financial compensation, as the PA has failed to comply with the court orders.
The funds will be withdrawn from Israel’s tax collections for the Palestinian Authority, as a penalty for the continued payment of salaries to Palestinian terrorists from PA funds. The High Court has recognized these terrorist salaries as a means of promoting attacks against Israel, further justifying the seizure of these funds.
Bezalel Smotrich’s decision sets a precedent for the compensation of numerous families of terror victims and opens the door for more claims to be filed against the Palestinian Authority in the future. This action not only provides justice for victims and their families but also holds the PA accountable for its role in supporting and facilitating terrorist activities.