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25 February 2025 – Israeli Defence Minister Yisrael Katz announced new sanctions against released terrorists – residents or citizens of Israel who receive payments from the Palestinian Authority. This decision was part of a strategy to combat terrorism through economic levers, Newsru reported.
What do the sanctions provide for?
According to the official statement of the Israeli Ministry of Defence, the sanctions were adopted on the recommendation of the Economic Counter-Terrorism Headquarters (MATAL) and agreed with the General Security Service (Shabak).
Key events:
– Freezing the assets of released terrorists who receive cash payments from the Palestinian Authority.
– Confiscation of property and cash received as part of these payments.
– Restrictions on the financial activities of suspects.
According to the ministry, the sanctions apply to those who received money from Ramallah, including imprisoned terrorists, released criminals, and their families. These payments are considered by the Israeli authorities as a reward for carrying out terrorist attacks.
Raids and confiscations: first steps in implementing sanctions
Immediately after the announcement of the sanctions, Israeli police forces, together with MATAL, conducted large-scale raids on the homes of people subject to the new decree.
Results of raids:
– Cash worth hundreds of thousands of shekels was seized.
– Jewellery, vehicles and other valuable property were confiscated.
– Bank accounts suspected of links to terrorist groups were blocked.
Israeli position: “No compromise with terrorism”
Defence Minister Israel Katz said that Israel is increasing economic pressure on those who directly or indirectly support terrorist activities.
Katz’s direct speech:
“We will not allow a situation where terrorists or their families receive rewards for crimes against Israeli citizens. This will strengthen deterrence and send a clear message to those planning terrorist attacks.”
The Palestinian Authority and the “payment policy”
Israel has long criticised the Palestinian Authority for its policy of so-called “martyrs’ payments” –financial support for Palestinians who have participated in terrorist acts or have been imprisoned. According to the Israeli security services, these payments often become an incentive for new attacks.
Israel’s position:
– Israel views such payments as direct support for terrorist activities.
– Calls on the international community to put pressure on the Palestinian Authority to stop this practice.
Reaction to the new sanctions
Although the Palestinian Authority’s official response has not yet been made public, a wave of criticism is expected from Palestinian groups and human rights organisations. Some of them may see these sanctions as an attempt by Israel to tighten control over the Palestinian population.
However, Israel insists that this step is solely aimed at fighting terrorism and is part of a comprehensive security strategy.
Increased economic pressure is becoming one of Israel’s key tools in countering terrorism, with a focus on depriving those who pose a threat to civilian security of financial resources.
