We Believe in Israel (WBII) unequivocally condemns the deeply misguided and politically motivated calls to suspend or sever trade relations with the State of Israel. These calls, spearheaded by ideologically extreme groups such as the BDS movement and Palestine Action, represent not only a betrayal of the UK’s values and strategic interests, but a morally incoherent attack on one of our closest democratic allies.
At a time when Israel faces existential threats from Iran and its terror proxies — Hamas in the south and Hezbollah in the north — it is profoundly shameful that activists and politicians would seek to economically isolate the only Jewish state in the world. Such measures do nothing to advance peace or human rights. Instead, they embolden those who traffic in hatred, support terrorism, and reject the very existence of Israel.
Let us be clear:
To call for an end to trade with Israel — a liberal democracy, a leader in technology, science, and security cooperation — is to reward Hamas and Hezbollah for their campaign of violence and terror. It is to punish the victim, not the aggressor.
The hypocrisy is staggering. These same voices are silent on Chinese repression of Uyghurs, on Russian aggression in Ukraine, on Iranian execution of protesters. Only the Jewish state is singled out. That is not diplomacy. That is discrimination.
The United Kingdom’s trade partnership with Israel is not merely about goods and services; it is a bond rooted in shared democratic values, a commitment to innovation, and the mutual pursuit of peace and prosperity. Over 400 Israeli companies operate in the UK, contributing to our economy, enhancing our security, and fostering academic and scientific collaboration. Ending that relationship would be a self-inflicted wound.
We call on the UK Government, all mainstream political parties, and civic institutions to reject these calls for economic warfare against Israel. Silence in the face of this campaign of demonisation is complicity.
We stand with Israel. We stand for truth, justice, and peace. And we urge all who value democracy and decency to do the same.
