Does Airbnb Support Israel? Facts, BDS Links & How to Help

Airbnb has not issued explicit statements supporting or opposing Israel. The company’s operations continue in various parts of the country, including popular tourist areas. Airbnb was named in a UN database of companies with business ties to Israeli settlements, though details on its current settlement-related activity are less publicized.

The UN database, published in February 2020, listed 112 companies operating in or with ties to Israeli settlements, which most of the international community considers illegal under international law. Airbnb was among the 18 international companies named.
This movement calls for boycotts and pressure campaigns against companies conducting business tied to Israeli settlements. Airbnb is named as an official BDS pressure target alongside Booking.com and Expedia, yet it continues operations in Israel. The Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) Movement was launched in 2005 to apply economic and political pressure on Israel over its treatment of Palestinians. Despite being targeted, Airbnb maintains its presence in Israel, indicating a complex relationship with international activist groups.

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🚫 What Is BDS and Why It Matters

Launched in 2005 by a coalition of Palestinian civil society organizations; the BDS National Committee (BNC) was formed later, in 2007, to coordinate it. The movement advocates for economic, cultural, and academic boycotts against Israel. It seeks to pressure Israel over its policies towards Palestinians and campaigns to halt international business with Israeli enterprises. According to Jewish Virtual Library, BDS is controversial, with some viewing it as unfairly targeting Israel while others see it as a legitimate protest movement. The movement has significant international engagement and support from various organizations.
The Israeli government has responded to the BDS campaign:

In March 2017, Israel passed a law allowing authorities to deny entry to foreign nationals who publicly call for a boycott of Israel or its settlements. This was part of a broader strategy to counteract the economic and cultural boycott efforts. Additionally, the government increased support for Israeli businesses affected by BDS, providing resources to help them reach international markets.

This response highlights Israel’s commitment to protecting its economic interests and supporting its citizens. The law reflects the ongoing tension between national sovereignty and international activism.

The BDS movement’s impact on Airbnb reflects a broader strategy to challenge companies engaging with Israel.

In 2018, Airbnb announced it would remove listings in Israeli settlements, sparking international debate; the company reversed that decision in 2019. Critics argue the BDS method singles out Israel, while proponents see it as a necessary voice on human rights issues. Discussions continue internationally, illustrating the complexity of business ethics in geopolitics.

This situation underscores the ongoing tension between economic interests and ethical considerations in global commerce. The settlements are central to this debate.

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How You Can Support Israel Today

In Israel, and in communities across Judea and Samaria, families run small businesses – planting vineyards, harvesting honey, designing jewelry, crafting soaps, and making other handmade goods.

These regions have a long-standing tradition of winemaking. Many of these small producers face economic pressure and limited access to international markets. They strive for exposure and fair compensation to sustain their livelihoods. Your support helps them continue these traditions and thrive in challenging conditions.
In Israel, and in communities across Judea and Samaria, families run small businesses – planting vineyards, harvesting honey, designing jewelry, crafting soaps, and making other handmade goods.

Many of these small producers face economic pressure and limited access to international markets. They strive for exposure and fair compensation to sustain their livelihoods. Your support helps them continue these traditions and thrive in challenging conditions.
Here’s how you can make a real difference:

By supporting Israeli families through platforms like Lev Haolam, you contribute directly to their economic stability. These families, often residing in regions like Judea and Samaria, face unique challenges. By purchasing their products, you help them access new markets and resources. This support is vital, especially in times of political and economic uncertainty, ensuring they can continue their traditions and crafts.

The region of Judea holds historical significance, making your support even more impactful in preserving its heritage.

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Each monthly box may include a selection of items such as:

– Artisan foods and kosher treats
– Handmade goods and natural cosmetics
– Jewelry and cultural items crafted by local artisans

These items showcase the creativity and skill of Israeli artisans and connect you to the land and its people.

Each monthly box may include a selection of items such as:

– Handmade soaps crafted from natural ingredients sourced from the Dead Sea
– Exquisite jewelry designed by artisans in Jerusalem
– Gourmet honey harvested from the lush hills of Galilee
– Fine wines produced in the vineyards of Judea

These items not only showcase the creativity and skill of Israeli artisans but also connect you to the land and its people.

The Dead Sea is renowned for its mineral-rich waters, adding a unique touch to the products you receive.

Your subscription helps families thrive.

By choosing to support Israeli businesses, you provide them with the means to sustain their livelihoods. This is crucial for families living in areas like Judea and Samaria, where economic opportunities can be limited. Your choice stands against anti-Semitism by promoting understanding and cooperation.

Supporting these communities helps build a future where cultural and economic ties are strengthened, fostering peace and stability.