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Palestinian Authority worries about economic losses

Special to World Tribune.com
MIDDLE EAST NEWSLINE
Monday, November 6, 2000

RAMALLAH — The Palestinian Authority is concerned over the economic losses of its revolt against Israel.

PA officials are warning that the PA is losing millions of dollars daily in revenues meant for Palestinian institutions controlled by Chairman Yasser Arafat. They said this includes a blockade on fuel and other commodities to the PA as well as a ban on Palestinian workers in Israel.

'The persistence of Israel's policy of siege and starvation against the Palestinians will only lead to more violence and hostility in the region," PA Economic Minister Maher Masri said. "The economy is continuing to decline. Activity has practically stopped completely."

Masri asserted that imports to the PA have been blocked and a shortage of food has resulted. The minister assessed losses to the Palestinian economy at $10 million daily.

The losses have sparked disputes within the PA leadership. Fatah leaders are accusing PA officials of benefiting from the revolt. Leaflets distributed throughout the West Bank accuse such Palestinians as PLO Executive Committee secretary Mahmoud Abbas and PA security chief Jibril Rajoub of being traitors and Israeli agents. Rajoub is said to control fuel distribution in the West Bank.

Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti was also called a traitor in a leaflet believed written by Rajoub aides.

Monday, November 6, 2000



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