The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) released on Friday documents that the PA (Palestinian Authority) does not plan to change its policy following meetings between PA Chairman Abu Mazen and US President Donald Trump. Minister for Prisoner Affairs Issa Qaraqe announced the PA will continue making payments as it has always done.

In 2016, the PA allocated to 1.15 billion shekels for salaries for terrorists, amounting to 7% of its total budget as well as about 20% of financial aid it receives. Payments will continue to families of imprisoned terrorists as well as those killed perpetrating terror attacks.

Ramallah officials told the al-Quds newspaper that US Special Representative for International Negotiations Jason Greenblatt was told that the PA would not change its policy, as it may create a “breeding ground” for terrorism.

The Wafa news agency quoted Qaraqe as saying, “We will continue paying the families of the martyrs and prisoners and will not succumb to Israeli pressure. We will continue aiding them, for they are victims of the occupation.”

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)