Israel's Fury: Foreign Minister Blasts Palestinian Authority for 'Pay-for-Slay' After Deadly Terror Attacks

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.

Key Facts

Date of Attack: December 26, 2025
Victims: Aviv Maor and Mordechai Shimshon were killed
Israeli Foreign Minister: Gideon Sa'ar condemned the PA
Policy Criticized: Palestinian Authority's 'Pay-for-Slay' program
Related Legislation: Taylor Force Act aims to cut U.S. aid to PA
Analyst Comment: Kobi Michael described PA's policy changes as a façade

Background

The article discusses the ongoing tensions between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, particularly following a terrorist attack that killed two Israelis. Gideon Sa'ar's criticism of the PA's financial incentives for violence highlights concerns over regional stability and peace efforts.

Quick Answers

Who is Gideon Sa'ar?: Gideon Sa'ar is the Israeli Foreign Minister who criticized the Palestinian Authority's policies after recent terrorist attacks.
What happened on December 26, 2025?: On December 26, 2025, two Israelis, Aviv Maor and Mordechai Shimshon, were killed by a Palestinian assailant.
What is the 'Pay-for-Slay' policy?: The 'Pay-for-Slay' policy provides financial incentives to those who commit terrorism and their families, as criticized by Gideon Sa'ar.
What is the Taylor Force Act?: The Taylor Force Act is a legislative measure aimed at cutting U.S. aid to the Palestinian Authority unless it stops funding terrorism.
What did Kobi Michael say about the Palestinian Authority's claims?: Kobi Michael stated that the PA's claims of stopping payments to terrorists are a façade, with no substantial policy change.
Why did Gideon Sa'ar call for an end to 'Pay-for-Slay'?: Gideon Sa'ar called for an end to 'Pay-for-Slay' due to concerns that it fuels ongoing violence against Israelis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Gideon Sa'ar's reaction to the recent attacks?

Gideon Sa'ar condemned the Palestinian Authority's financial incentives for violence in response to the attacks.

What significant legislative measure relates to the 'Pay-for-Slay' policy?

The Taylor Force Act seeks to cut U.S. aid to the Palestinian Authority unless it ceases this policy.

Source reference: https://www.foxnews.com/world/israel-fm-accuses-palestinian-authority-aiding-terror-pay-for-slay-after-deadly-attack