Full Breakdown
Times Square Billboard Highlights Palestinian Authority's 'Pay-for-Slay' Policy
2/15/2026, 2:21:40 AM
Core Event: Billboard Campaign Against 'Pay-for-Slay'
On February 14, 2026, a new electronic billboard was unveiled in Times Square, New York City, emphasizing the Palestinian Authority's (PA) controversial 'pay-for-slay' policy. This initiative, created in collaboration with Israel's Foreign Affairs Ministry, features an image of Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the PA, alongside the message: "Palestinian Authority still pays for killing Jews - END PAY FOR SLAY." This campaign aims to raise awareness about the PA's financial support for families of convicted terrorists and those killed during attacks against Israelis.
Background & Context: The 'Pay-for-Slay' Policy
The 'pay-for-slay' policy, formally known as the Martyrs' Fund, has been a contentious issue since its inception in 2004. It allocates stipends to Palestinian terrorists imprisoned for attacks against Israelis and to the families of those killed by Israeli forces. Critics argue that the payments incentivize terrorism, while the PA defends them as support for individuals they consider prisoners of war. The fund reportedly consumes approximately $300 million annually, accounting for 8% of the PA's yearly budget.
Despite Abbas signing a decree in February 2025 to formally end the program, reports indicate that the PA has continued to distribute funds through undisclosed channels. The U.S. State Department informed Congress that over $200 million was still allocated to terrorists and their families in 2025.
Recent Developments: Draft Constitution and Its Implications
The billboard's launch coincides with Abbas's recent announcement of a draft constitution for a Palestinian state, which notably omits any reference to Jewish ties to Jerusalem. The proposed constitution designates Jerusalem as the "capital of the State of Palestine" and vows to protect its Islamic and Christian sanctuaries, while failing to acknowledge the city's significance to Judaism. Additionally, the draft states that Islamic Sharia law would serve as the primary source for legislation.
Criticism & Opposition: Diverse Perspectives on the Policy
Critics of the 'pay-for-slay' policy argue that it undermines peace efforts and perpetuates violence. They contend that the financial incentives for terrorism contribute to ongoing conflict in the region. Conversely, supporters within the PA maintain that the payments are a necessary form of support for families affected by conflict, framing them as humanitarian aid rather than encouragement of violence.
Official Statements & Responses
The Israeli government has been vocal in its condemnation of the PA's financial practices, emphasizing the need to end the 'pay-for-slay' policy. The billboard campaign is part of broader efforts to draw international attention to this issue and advocate for changes in PA policies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Palestinian Authority still pays for killing Jews … END PAY FOR SLAY,” — Times Square Billboard
- “The fund incentivizes terrorism, critics have charged — while the Palestinian government insists that the payments provide a lifeline to those they feel are prisoners of war.” — Palestinian Authority supporters
What's Next: Ongoing Discussions and Potential Actions
The unveiling of the billboard and the draft constitution has reignited discussions about the PA's policies and their implications for peace in the region. Future actions may include further international pressure on the PA to reform its financial practices and address the contentious aspects of its proposed constitution.
