RAMALLAH, July 31 (KUNA) -- The Palestinians on Sunday deplored an Israeli decision to deduct up to USD 173 million in tax revenue collected on their behalf by Israel, saying the move is tantamount to a robbery of Palestinian funds.
President Mahmoud Abbas "categorically rejects this dangerous decision and affirms that the rights of Palestinian prisoners will be safeguarded despite pressures," Palestinian news agency WAFA quoted his spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh as saying.
Israel's cabinet voted on Sunday to cut USD 173 million in tax revenue collected for the Palestinians, saying it has the "legal right" to do so on an annual basis as per a 2018 law.
Taxes collected by Israel form half of Palestinian income, most of which goes to the families of deceased or jailed Palestinians as a financial gesture of support. (end) nq.nam