The Palestinian Authority has been stripped of nearly $200 million aid by the United States in response to its attempt to gain UN recognition... Congress demands more.

The Palestinian Authority has been stripped of nearly $200 million aid by the United States in response to its attempt to gain UN recognition, the independent news paper reported Saturday.

“The US Congress has threatened of blocking projects such as food aid, health care, and support for efforts to build a functioning state,” the British daily stated.

It further pointed out that such a decision opposes US President Barack Obama’s desires and reflects the Congressional anger at Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for his efforts to gain the UN recognition of a Palestinian State.

In this context, the paper indicated that “former US President Bill Clinton, among others, this month warned legislators to leave the issue of aid to the administration,” and quoted Clinton as saying: “Everybody knows the US Congress is the most pro-Israel parliamentary body in the world. They don't have to demonstrate that."

Moreover, this step reveals the seriousness of the Congressional leaders' threats of an even wider halt to funds in the coming year if Abbas continues with his actions at the UN, the Independent added, clarifying that the Congress has persistently demanded withholding up to $600 million.