PA Pay‑for‑Slay Program Tied to Oct 7 Terrorist Attack

A newly published investigation says that deals forcing Israel to release hundreds of terrorists and a Palestinian Authority “pay‑for‑slay” program helped finance the Oct 7, 2023 massacre. Over 650 jihadis linked to the attack received payouts, and more than 150 released prisoners became millionaires through the same system, amounting to more than $5 billion since 2011.

A study by the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs details the PA’s statutory framework that provides salaries, release grants, guaranteed employment and ongoing support to terrorist prisoners and released individuals. Many released under the 2011 Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange resumed militant activity, with some, including Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, assuming senior roles. The report notes the PA has not abandoned the remuneration policy after Oct 7.