Warnings and then punishments: Israel has begun implementing the economic sanctions decided upon by the security cabinet, following the reconciliation agreement with Hamas, according to Palestinian sources.
According to the sources, Israel sent a message to the Palestinian Authority two days ago that at the end of this month their debts to Israel would be offset by the tax money that Israel collects for them. Israel collects an amount of around half a billion shekels every month on products destined for Judea and Samaria and the Gaza Strip. These taxes are transferred to the Palestinian Authority. However, now, as mentioned, Israel has decided to offset the Authority's debts from this amount.
This move is the first in a series of punitive measures planned by Israel. Among other things, Jerusalem is considering revoking the VIP passes of senior PA officials, which allow them free movement within Judea and Samaria when entering and leaving Israel, and canceling the transfer of cash accumulated in Palestinian banks to banks in Israel. The possibility of freezing drilling in the natural gas field, located off the coast of Gaza, is also being considered.
The New York Times reported that Israel is "disappointed" by the American position that does not unequivocally support Israel in negotiations with Hamas. In the past, according to the newspaper, the Obama administration pledged to support Israel's position, which opposes negotiations with any Palestinian government based on Hamas.
Join the Haredim 10 Facebook page >>
Join the X page of Haredim 10 >>
Want more news, videos and stories? Join the Haredim 10 WhatsApp channel >>
