Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’s recent praise for freed terrorist Yasser Abu Bakr has ignited a firestorm of criticism and raised serious questions about the prospects for peace in the region.
At a Glance
- Abbas congratulated Yasser Abu Bakr, a convicted murderer released in a ceasefire deal with Hamas
- Abu Bakr was serving a 115-year sentence for attacks that killed Israeli civilians, including a 9-month-old infant
- Israeli officials criticized Abbas’s actions, calling him a “supporter of terror”
- The Palestinian Authority’s policies, including “Pay-for-Slay,” are accused of incentivizing terrorism
- Critics argue that Abbas’s actions undermine peace efforts and promote violence
Abbas’s Controversial Congratulations
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has once again found himself at the center of controversy after congratulating Yasser Abu Bakr, a convicted terrorist recently released as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas. Abu Bakr, who was serving a 115-year sentence for attacks that resulted in the deaths of Israeli civilians, including a nine-month-old infant, received a personal call from Abbas upon his release.
“You are our pride and glory,” Mahmoud Abbas said.
Well…uh…that’s not great.
The congratulatory call has sparked outrage among Israeli officials and critics of the Palestinian Authority. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich didn’t mince words, labeling Abbas a “supporter of terror.” This incident has reignited long-standing concerns about the Palestinian leadership’s commitment to peace and its role in perpetuating violence in the region.
At the heart of the controversy surrounding Abbas and the Palestinian Authority is the infamous “Pay-for-Slay” policy. This program provides monthly stipends to terrorists and their families, with higher payments awarded for more severe attacks against Israelis. In 2022 alone, the PA reportedly allocated approximately $170 million to this program, accounting for roughly 5% of its budget.
Critics argue that this policy serves as a direct incentive for terrorism, undermining any genuine efforts towards peace. The financial rewards for violence not only glorify acts of terror but also create a perverse economic incentive for individuals to engage in attacks against Israeli civilians.
Beyond the financial incentives, the Palestinian Authority stands accused of promoting violence through various channels. State-controlled media, educational materials, and public statements by leaders frequently demonize Israel and glorify those who carry out attacks against Israeli citizens. Of particular concern is the content of Palestinian textbooks, which reportedly promote violence and martyrdom, contributing to a troubling increase in terrorist activities by minors.
This systematic indoctrination, critics argue, creates a cycle of hatred and violence that perpetuates the conflict and makes the prospect of a lasting peace agreement increasingly distant.
Abbas’s recent actions also fit into a broader pattern of controversial behavior that has characterized his more than two decades in power. He has been accused of rejecting multiple peace proposals, including offers for a two-state solution, and pursuing anti-Israel initiatives at the United Nations rather than engaging in direct negotiations.
As tensions continue to simmer, many are calling for a fundamental shift in Palestinian leadership and policies. But can a “nation” like this ever get better?