Israeli TV: Palestinian officials stole millions in public funds; Palestinians issue denial

Israeli TV station alleges Palestinian corruption

RAMALLAH, West Bank — An Israeli TV station says it has uncovered evidence that Palestinian Authority officials have stolen millions of dollars in public funds. In response, the Palestinian attorney general denies the accusations and says he’ll sue the station.

Israel’s Channel 10 TV aired a report based on interviews with a Palestinian whistle-blower, Fahmi Shabaneh, who shows documents he says back up his charges.

The station does not name the officials, but says they include confidants of President Mahmoud Abbas.

Palestinian Attorney General Ahmed Mughani says the allegations are baseless.

Corruption was rampant under the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. However, Prime Minister Salam Fayyad is credited with cleaning up public finances.