The German Government welcomes President Abbas’ decision to abolish the so‑called Martyrs Fund. The Palestinian Authority (PA) has replaced it with a social security system whose benefits are related to families’ needs and not to the term for which a family member has been imprisoned.

By abolishing the martyrs payment system, the PA is signalling that it is prepared to tackle reforms, even when they are difficult. Together with the European Union, we will support the PA as it continues along the path of reform.

The German Government hopes that following this step taken by the PA, Israel will now pay the PA the considerable tax and customs revenues it is due.

We continue to work towards the goal of a negotiated two‑state solution which will enable Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace.