Thursday, December 01, 2011

FM: No such thing as 'kosher' terror funds

Avigdor Lieberman slams cabinet's decision to transfers PA tax funds, warns Palestinian Authority will 'use money to shelter murderers'

Moran Azulay

Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman expressed his discontent of Israel's decision to transfer withheld tax funds to the Palestinian Authority, saying the PA was sure to use the money to fund acts of terror.

Israel collects approximately $100 million a month in various taxes on behalf of the PA. The transfer of funds collected in October and November has been suspended following UNESCO's decision to grant Ramallah's bid for full membership.

The decision to unfreeze the funds followed a demand to that effect by Defense Minister Ehud Barak. "This is an unfortunate decision that will do nothing to rehabilitate Israel's relations with the Palestinians," he said, referring to the special eight-minister' forum's decision to unfreeze the funds.

"All it will do is allow the PA to use the funds to encourage and perpetuate terror. It's a mistake to transfer money to the PA when Mahmoud Abbas uses it to give grants and shelter murderers, lending them the kind of honor that encourages the next generation to take up terror, too," he said.

The Palestinian Authority, he added, "Continues with its anti-Israel acts in the international area as well, calling for embargos, making baseless accusations and inciting against Israel.

"Under these circumstances, saying that the transfer must happen because it is Palestinian money is ridiculous. There is no such thing as 'kosher' terror funds. The Israeli government should have explained that to the international community."

Meanwhile, Opposition Chairwoman Tzipi Livni (Kadima) welcomed the move: "These funds are meant to help the Palestinian Authority pay wages," she said.

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