Supreme Court Revives Terrorism Victims' Law Against Palestinian Authorities

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously upheld a statute that allows Americans to sue Palestinian authorities over past acts of violence. This move comes as families seek compensation for tragedies in Israel and the West Bank and marks a pivotal shift in legal jurisdiction debates.

The Promoting Security and Justice for Victims of Terrorism Act of 2019 had been previously struck down as unconstitutional by lower courts, citing due process violations against the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organization. However, the Supreme Court's 9-0 ruling overturns these decisions, responding to appeals initiated under the Trump administration and pursued by the Biden administration.

This ruling could impact ongoing and future cases, notably for American families awarded a $655 million judgment in 2015 and relatives of Ari Fuld, a victim of violence in the region. The Court's decision underlines the complexities of international legal jurisdiction and the continuing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

(With inputs from agencies.)