United with Israel

BDS Lies About Victory at UK University

BDS

Anti-Israel BDS activists. (Screenshot)

Did BDS actually claim its first victory at a UK university? The facts prove otherwise.   

By: United with Israel Staff

The anti-Israel BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement declared victory after the University of Leeds last month made the decision to stop investing in several companies linked to Israel–a move that BDS portrayed as a decision to divest from three companies “complicit in the violation of Palestinian human rights.” The three companies are Airbus, United Technologies and Keyence Corporation.

A fourth company, HSBC, is also reportedly under review by the university’s investment managers for its loans to Elbit Systems, Caterpillar and BAE Systems, all of which sell weapons and military equipment to Israel.

BDS claimed that the supposed “divestment” was a result of student action.

Co-President of the Leeds Palestine Solidarity Group (PSG) Evie Russell-Cohen claimed that “it’s clear that the Palestinian call for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions is being heard in the UK. Students are no longer willing to see their tuition fees funding weapons companies which profit from the killing of Palestinians. This is a massive success, but we hope that it will only be the beginning of a wave change across UK Universities.”

It’s the Environment, Stupid

However, the facts tell a different story.

In reality, the university’s decision to stop investing in these companies is due to its choice to invest in a more “climate active strategy,” and was not the product of BDS pressure.

The move was motivated by environmental concerns, the university unequivocally stated, and a desire to try to reduce the institution’s carbon footprint.

A university spokesperson for Leeds U told The Algemeiner last week that it had only become aware of PSG’s open letter on October 25, after the university had already withdrawn its holdings from three of the four targeted companies.

“The University adopted a climate active strategy in May this year,” the spokesperson said. “Implementation of that strategy triggered the sale on 15 October of the university’s indirect holdings in Airbus, United Technologies and Keyence.”

Bring Joy to Israeli Soldiers - Send Winter Care Packages!

We are honored to thank the young men and women of the IDF who risk their lives every day to defend the citizens of Israel.

Join us in sending winter care packages and personal notes of support to Israeli soldiers who are out in the cold all day.

Warm up a soldier's heart with essential winter wear including fleece jackets, hats, gloves and more. Keep an entire unit warm!

THE SOLDIERS REALLY APPRECIATE YOUR LOVE AND CONCERN!

Click Here to Send Your Gift and Personal Note to Israeli Soldiers

Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!

Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!

Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.

Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!

STAND WTH ISRAEL - MAKE A DONATION TODAY!

Exit mobile version