Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that he will not transfer tax money to the Palestinian Authority (PA) as long as he heads the ministry. The move comes amid reports of pressure from the United States on Israel to release the monthly tax revenues collected by Israel for transfer to the PA. The transfer of tax revenues to the PA has been halted since October 7.
In addition to this development, Israeli forces conducted a series of raids across the occupied West Bank, leading to the detention of at least 14 Palestinians, including a child. The raids targeted various areas, including Tulkarm, Jericho, Ramallah province, Hebron, and the northern province of Tubas. The detentions occurred in villages, towns, and refugee camps, with reports of individuals being arrested during the raids.
The situation underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges faced by the Palestinian Authority in accessing crucial financial resources. The halt in the transfer of tax revenues adds to the economic difficulties faced by the Palestinian territories. The broader context involves complex geopolitical dynamics, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and international diplomatic efforts to address the situation.
(With Agency Inputs)
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