Palestinian Envoy: Israel Withholding $544M Violates International Rights Law
The funds in question come from tax and customs revenue that Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority under previous agreements.
HARARE, Zimbabwe— The Palestinian Ambassador to Zimbabwe accused Israel Thursday of illegally withholding more than $544 million in Palestinian tax and customs revenues, calling it "financial piracy" that violates international law, writes Wallace Mawire.
Dr. Tamer Almassri said Israel's actions, particularly during its recent military operations in Gaza, have severely impacted essential services for Palestinians.
"Israel's systematic theft of Palestinian funds demonstrates a callous disregard for basic needs and human rights," Almassri said.
"This directly undermines the Palestinian Authority's ability to provide healthcare, education, and social welfare programs."
The ambassador said the seized funds belong to the Palestinian Authority and their withholding amounts to collective punishment that deepens the humanitarian crisis.
Palestinian officials are pursuing legal and diplomatic channels to recover the funds, Almassri said.
They have called for international intervention to secure the immediate return of the revenue and hold Israel accountable.
The funds in question come from tax and customs revenue that Israel collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority under previous agreements.