An Israeli official says Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could soon release tens of millions of dollars in Palestinian tax funds.

Israel froze the money to protest the Palestinians' attempt to win world recognition of an independent state at the United Nations.

The Palestinians desperately need the money to keep their government afloat. They say that without it, they won't be able to pay monthly salaries of tens of thousands of civil servants.

The international community has been pushing Israel to release the money.

According to the Israeli official, Netanyahu told a parliamentary committee on Monday, November 28, he could soon support releasing the funds. But he said his decision will depend on the Palestinians.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the meeting was closed, The Associated Press reported.