Story perspectives

Protests Erupt in West Bank Over PA Welfare Reforms

12/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Palestinian Authority (PA) faced protests in Ramallah, Tulkarem, and Nablus over welfare reforms linked to the National Economic Empowerment Institution (Tamkeen).
Demonstrators criticized the PA for pushing reforms amid allegations of mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners by Israeli authorities.
The PA said 86 prisoners have died in Israeli custody since October 7, 2023.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich resisted pressure to facilitate banking transactions with Palestinian banks, complicating the economy.

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Story summary

The Palestinian Authority (PA) faced protests in Ramallah, Tulkarem, and Nablus over welfare reforms linked to the National Economic Empowerment Institution (Tamkeen).
Demonstrators criticized the PA for pushing reforms amid allegations of mistreatment of Palestinian prisoners by Israeli authorities.
The PA said 86 prisoners have died in Israeli custody since October 7, 2023.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich resisted pressure to facilitate banking transactions with Palestinian banks, complicating the economy.