The Jewish National Fund (JNF) is under scrutiny for allegedly funding Israeli military operations and illegal settlements, prompting the International Centre for Justice for Palestinians to request the UK attorney general to revoke its charity status. The JNF, established in 1901 to buy land in Palestine, has a history of displacing Palestinians and is affiliated with the World Zionist Organisation.
Recently, Canada revoked the charitable status of JNF Canada and another pro-Israel group, Ne’eman Foundation, citing their involvement in building military infrastructure in Israel. The ICJP raised concerns that UK Gift Aid may be indirectly funding Israeli settlements and war crimes through the JNF. The Charity Commission has initiated investigations into the matter.
Dania Abul Haj, Senior Legal Officer at ICJP, called for intervention to prevent the JNF from supporting illegal activities while enjoying charitable status. The precedent set by Canada in revoking charity status serves as a call to action for the UK government to take similar steps.
It is imperative for the UK authorities to address these allegations and ensure that charitable funds are not used to support illegal activities.