
School Delayed And Wages Unpaid: Palestinian Authority Faces Deep Economic Crisis
A worsening cash crunch has left large numbers of Palestinian public employees with partial or delayed salaries and forced a postponement of the school year for more than 600,000 children. The PA’s finances—heavily dependent on revenues transferred via Israel—have been battered by withholdings and broader economic shocks after October 7, contributing to growing hardship across Judea and Samaria. Community leaders voiced anxiety about social strain, while businesses reported shrinking demand and mounting arrears.
Teachers, security personnel, and civil servants described months-long delays or cuts that complicate rent, food, and transportation costs. Palestinian officials called for international intervention and a predictable mechanism for clearing fiscal disputes, warning that continued instability could undermine public services and security coordination. Banking frictions and limits on labor permits inside Israel added further pressure by curbing household income.
Israeli voices cautioned that a collapsing economy next door can rebound negatively on security, while others argued for strict conditionality to ensure funds do not empower extremists. Donors weighed short-term relief against concerns over governance and transparency. For families caught in the middle, the urgent hope is for restored salaries, a stable school calendar, and a path toward sustainable growth.
(TOI/VFI News)
“Father, we lift up families in Judea and Samaria who are facing economic strain. Provide dignified work, timely wages, and stability in homes and schools. Guide leaders to just policies that de-escalate tensions, value life, and open doors for peace and prosperity.”