Context of the Recent Attacks
On December 26, 2025, Israel faced a grim reminder of ongoing tensions and violence in the region when two individuals, Aviv Maor and Mordechai Shimshon, were killed by a Palestinian assailant. This tragic incident has prompted Israeli officials, particularly Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, to speak out against the Palestinian Authority's notorious 'Pay-for-Slay' policy.
Sa'ar's Accusations
Gideon Sa'ar took to social media following the attacks, directing harsh criticism toward the Palestinian Authority (PA). He accused it of misleading the international community regarding its financial policies that incentivize terrorism. Sa'ar pointedly stated, "Don't believe Mahmoud Abbas' lies. The PA's payments to terrorists and their families haven't stopped. This includes payments to 'martyrs' and those incarcerated for acts of violence." Sa'ar's assertions come in light of existing fears that such policies fuel continued violence against Israelis and undermine peace efforts. The PA's 'Pay-for-Slay' program offers financial support to those convicted of terrorism, sending a disturbing message that aggression against Israel is rewarded.
“This is distorted. End 'Pay-for-Slay' now!” – Gideon Sa'ar
A Deeper Dive: The Origins of the 'Pay-for-Slay' Policy
The 'Pay-for-Slay' policy has been a contentious issue for years, gaining notoriety following the 2016 murder of Taylor Force, a U.S. Army veteran in Israel. His family pushed for legislative measures against the PA's payments, resulting in the Taylor Force Act, which sought to cut U.S. aid to the PA unless it ceased this policy.
Despite claims from PA representatives that the program was abolished, analysts argue that payments continue in a less visible manner. Kobi Michael, a security expert, remarked that while the PA makes superficial adjustments to its policies, the substantial underpinning remains unchanged. “They are making noises as if they are changing their policies. But this is simply a façade,” he stated. Michael further clarified that funding still flows in ways that make oversight difficult for international donor nations.
The International Community's Role
Sa'ar's comments also reflect a broader concern about the role of the international community in addressing terrorism linked to the Palestinian Authority. With Western nations increasingly looking to acknowledge Palestinian statehood, Sa'ar warns that such recognition without stringent conditions may only embolden the PA to continue its terror-funding policies. “Western leaders, the British prime minister, the French president, and the Spanish prime minister are rushing to recognize a Palestinian state, and they don't care what happens under the Palestinian Authority in the territories,” he asserted.
A Call for Accountability
The implications of this ongoing policy extend beyond the immediate violence. They signal a fundamental challenge in achieving peace not only in Israel and the Palestinian territories but also across the region. As discourse continues around the PA, many advocates are calling for stricter accountability measures for nations that financially support the Palestinian Authority. Experts like Michael argue that countries providing aid must ensure that these funds do not end up in the hands of terrorist entities.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
In summary, the recent terrorist attacks have once again highlighted the precarious relationship between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, especially regarding policies that promote violence. As both sides grapple with the longstanding and complex issues at play, clear reporting and urgent discussions are essential for fostering trust and pushing toward a resolution that prioritizes the safety of citizens on both sides.
Further Reading
Source reference: https://www.foxnews.com/world/israel-fm-accuses-palestinian-authority-aiding-terror-pay-for-slay-after-deadly-attack
