United Methodist Church Conference Examines Withdrawal of Investments from Companies Supporting Israeli Settlements

The United Methodist Church of America is currently reviewing a range of financial, religious, and social proposals during its conference, which began on May 10 and continues through the twentieth. Among the topics under consideration is the potential withdrawal of investments from major companies such as Caterpillar, Hoyt Packard, and Motorola. These companies are reportedly involved in supporting “Israel” and backing the construction of settlements in the West Bank.

The Methodist Church’s investment portfolio is valued at approximately $21 billion, with around 7 million followers. The decision to consider divesting from these companies comes amid growing pressure from movements like the Israeli boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaign, as highlighted by the Arab Jerusalem newspaper.

Earlier this year, the Methodist Church had already taken steps to boycott five major Israeli banks, including Habwalim Bank, Lumy Bank, First International of Israel, Misrahi Bank, and others. These banks were targeted for financing construction in settlements in the West Bank, an activity deemed illegal by the United Nations and opposed by the Obama Administration.

Other Protestant denominations, such as the United States Church of the Presbyterian Church and the United Church of Christ, have previously taken similar actions. In 2014, the Presbyterian Church withdrew its investments from companies supporting Israel, and the United Church of Christ followed suit in 2015.

In contrast, evangelical churches that support the Israeli entity, including some of the largest churches backing Republican candidate Donald Trump, are not expected to take similar steps. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has also reached out to the United Methodist Church of America, urging it not to approve the withdrawal of its substantial investments in companies linked to Israel. Clinton argues that such a move could harm both “Israel” and the Palestinian people.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)