The Palestinian Authority (PA) continues to uphold its controversial policy of financially rewarding individuals convicted of terrorism, despite mounting international criticism. This system, commonly referred to as “Pay-for-Slay,” ensures that individuals convicted of attacks against Israelis receive financial support—often backed by international aid money.

Despite global pressure, PA President Mahmoud Abbas was recently caught on camera reaffirming his commitment to the policy, declaring:

“If we have a single penny left, it will go to the prisoners and martyrs.”

These so-called “prisoners and martyrs” include individuals convicted of violent attacks, many of whom have been released under ceasefire agreements. Instead of prioritizing infrastructure, education, or economic development, the PA continues to allocate large sums of money to convicted terrorists.

How “Pay-for-Slay” Works

The PA sets aside millions of dollars annually for its Martyrs’ Fund, which provides:

• Lump-sum payments to convicted terrorists upon release.

• Lifetime monthly stipends for those who have served time in Israeli prisons.

• Financial support for families of those killed while committing attacks.

Terrorists Turned Into Millionaires

Fresh out of prison, convicted terrorists are being handed large cash payouts, sometimes exceeding what an average Palestinian will earn in a lifetime.

One of the most notorious examples is Ahmed Barghouti, responsible for the deaths of 12 Israelis in multiple suicide bombings. Under the PA’s payment scheme, he will receive 1.2 million shekels (approximately $325,000 USD)—enough to purchase luxury property and live comfortably for years.

Other terrorists receiving large sums include:

• Mansour Shreim, who killed nine Israeli teenagers in 2002, will receive hundreds of thousands of dollars upon release.

• Ahmed Abu Khader, who trained suicide bombers, is set to receive a similar payout.

• Raad Saadi, convicted of murdering Israeli soldiers, will be awarded over $550,000 USD.

Some terrorists being deported will receive even larger payments, with additional tax-free shopping privileges on luxury items such as cars and high-end goods.

In addition to lump-sum payouts, each convicted terrorist released under recent ceasefire agreements is entitled to a $25,000 USD “special grant” and a lifetime government salary. In total, the PA has committed over $14 million USD to released terrorists.

Where Does the Money Come From?

The PA’s budget is heavily reliant on foreign aid, including funds from the United States, the European Union, and other Western nations that provide financial support under the premise of humanitarian relief. While these funds are meant to support infrastructure, healthcare, and economic stability, large portions continue to be allocated to payments for convicted terrorists.

The Trump Administration’s Response

The Trump administration took strong action against the “Pay-for-Slay” policy. In 2018, the Taylor Force Act was signed into law, cutting U.S. economic aid to the PA unless these payments were halted. The law was named after Taylor Force, an American citizen murdered in a Palestinian terrorist attack in Israel.

Following the law’s enactment, the U.S. withheld over $200 million in direct aid to the PA. However, despite these measures, the payments have continued.

In February, Abbas signed a decree pledging to end the program, but no action has been taken to implement the change. Critics argue the PA remains committed to rewarding convicted terrorists and has no intention of stopping the policy.

International Response and Future Implications

The “Pay-for-Slay” policy has drawn widespread condemnation from governments and human rights organizations, with increasing calls for foreign aid restrictions until the payments are abolished. However, as Abbas doubles down on his stance, the program remains firmly in place.

With ongoing ceasefire negotiations and more convicted terrorists being released, the future of international funding to the PA remains under scrutiny.

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