Apple has matched $34.5 million in employee donations to organizations that support the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and settlements in the West Bank. Employees use Benevity to donate, and Apple contributes the same amount. The money has gone to groups like Friends of the IDF and the Jewish National Fund.
In a letter, current and former Apple workers, along with shareholders, are urging Apple to halt matching donations to groups that support the Israeli military and contribute to illegal settlements in the West Bank. These groups include Friends of the IDF, which raises money for Israeli soldiers, and other organizations like HaYovel, One Israel Fund, the Jewish National Fund, and IsraelGives.
As of now, Apple has not responded to these concerns.
Legal and Ethical Concerns Raised by Experts
Diala Shamas, a senior attorney at the Center for Constitutional Rights, criticized the lack of oversight on nonprofits that support activities deemed illegal under international law. She emphasized that having 501(c)(3) status does not make it acceptable to fund organizations involved in war crimes.
In response, New York is considering a bill called the “Not On Our Dime Act,” which aims to limit fundraising by nonprofits for illegal settlements and hold them accountable.
Shamas stressed that companies should verify if their donations are supporting illegal activities rather than relying solely on an organization's nonprofit status.
Apple Employees Speak Out
Employees organized under the name Apples4Ceasefire had previously protested against Apple Store employees who were disciplined for showing support for Palestinians. Their new letter is part of a broader trend of tech workers speaking out about their companies' involvement in global issues.
Since the conflict escalated on October 7, there has been increased scrutiny of groups supporting the Israeli military and settlements. Reports indicate that Friends of the IDF has raised $34.5 million for the Israeli military. Additionally, IsraelGives received substantial funds for military and settlement activities, mostly from U.S. donors.
Some groups on Apple’s donation list are also criticized for promoting religious extremism or supporting actions that break international law. For example, the One Israel Fund and HaYovel have controversial views on the West Bank, while the Jewish National Fund is criticized for its role in displacing Palestinians.
Despite Apple’s claim of supporting human rights, as stated in its adherence to the U.N. Universal Declaration of Human Rights, concerns about the company’s donation practices persist.
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