RAMALLAH, May 2, 2011 (WAFA) – The Palestinian Liberation Organization’s Executive Committee Monday condemned statements by an Israeli government official against Palestinian reconciliation and on withholding money from the Palestinian Authority.

Israeli Finance Minister, Yuval Steinitz, Sunday said that the Israeli government has decided to withhold transfer to the PA of $90 million of tax funds and customs fees that Israel collects on the Palestinians’ behalf due to the unity agreement reached on Wednesday between Fatah and Hamas.

In a statement, the committee considered the Israeli decision to withhold transfer of tax funds as“blackmail.” It said Israel uses this pretext to evade meeting its peace obligations.

The Executive Committee praised the reconciliation saying it gave a realistic prospect to face liquidation of the Palestinian cause.

Y.Y./M.A.