A recent investigation by French media outlet Le Media has revealed that non-profit organisations in France are illegally soliciting tax-free donations to fund military equipment for Israeli soldiers. The report, titled “How our taxes finance drones for the Israeli army,” exposes how these organisations are exploiting fiscal legislation meant to encourage philanthropy for humanitarian, social, and cultural causes.
The investigation focuses on Tipat Mazal, an organisation created near Paris, which has been redirecting donations intended for the elderly, orphans, and single women towards the purchase of military gear for Israeli soldiers. This includes helmets, tactical vests, and thermal drones valued at 7,000 euros each.
French donors, unaware of the true destination of their contributions, receive tax certificates that do not disclose the military nature of the purchases. Videos on social media show Israeli soldiers thanking the donors for the equipment received. Le Media estimates that French taxpayers have inadvertently contributed 231,000 euros towards this cause.
Despite previous warnings from the French finance ministry about the illegality of such practices, some organisations continue to offer tax exemption for donations supporting foreign armies. Lawmakers have condemned these actions, highlighting the diversion of funds from essential services like education and healthcare to finance military operations.