German Development Ministry: Suspension of Aid to Palestinians Pending Review

A spokesperson for the German Development Ministry in Berlin stated today, Monday, that "the developmental aid Germany pledged for the Palestinian territories this year and next will be temporarily suspended pending a comprehensive review." The spokesperson clarified that "the German Development Ministry committed around 125 million euros (131.63 million dollars) for bilateral developmental cooperation for the Palestinian territories this year and next year." As the "Al-Aqsa Flood" operation enters its third day, the rocket bombardment on the Gaza Strip has not ceased. The Al-Qassam Brigades announced the launch of a new barrage of rockets towards Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, "in response to the Israeli bombardment," which led to a state of emergency being declared in Jerusalem and the "Gush Dan" and "Sharon" areas.