UK regulator issues warning to charity accused of fundraising for Israeli army

The Charity Commission of the United Kingdom has issued a formal warning to Mizrachi UK, a British charity accused of fundraising for the Israeli military and hosting speakers associated with hate speech. This action follows a seven-month investigation prompted by a complaint from the International Centre of Justice of Palestinians (ICJP). The commission has mandated Mizrachi UK to implement corrective measures, keeping the case open until full compliance is achieved. The investigation revealed that Mizrachi UK promoted fundraising appeals on its website and Facebook page for organizations providing equipment to foreign military personnel, which contradicted the charity’s public benefit objectives. Although no evidence was found that Mizrachi UK used its own funds for these appeals, the commission deemed the promotion of such activities inappropriate and damaging to the charity’s reputation. The ICJP’s complaint highlighted instances where Mizrachi UK solicited donations for Israeli soldiers, including combat equipment, which is not considered charitable under UK law. Additionally, the charity hosted speakers known for inflammatory rhetoric, such as former Likud Knesset member Yehuda Glick and journalist Sivan Rahav-Meir, whose statements were deemed to promote hate speech. The Charity Commission’s warning underscores the importance of maintaining public trust in charitable organizations and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards. This development also aligns with the commission’s broader stance against fundraising for foreign militaries, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The ICJP has expressed its commitment to continuing its scrutiny of UK-based charities to uphold Palestinian human rights.