In a significant legal development, the United States Supreme Court has reinforced a substantial financial judgment against Palestinian entities in a case stretching back over two decades. Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s decision on Monday means a $656 million verdict remains in place against the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority, linked to attacks in Israel.
This decision follows the court’s previous ruling in favor of the plaintiffs last year. The families of those affected by the attacks, which occurred in Jerusalem in the early 2000s and resulted in 33 fatalities and numerous injuries, pursued legal action under the Anti-Terrorism Act. This U.S. law facilitates court access for victims of international terrorism.
The Palestinian authorities had expressed concern that fulfilling this judgment could severely impact governmental operations in the West Bank. They had sought a delay in payment as they appealed the reinstatement of the verdict.
Previously, a federal court in New York had dismissed the original verdict, siding with the Palestinian entities as legislative changes unfolded. However, the Supreme Court rejuvenated two cases in 2025, leading to the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision in March to reinstate the verdict. At that time, attorneys for the plaintiffs expressed their satisfaction, noting the ruling allowed “justice to be done” after an extensive legal battle.
For further details on the case’s history, refer to the high court’s decision from last year.
