Israel's Diaspora Minister Recommends Entry Ban for Amos Trust Activists

The Israeli government has moved to restrict the entry of foreign activists linked to the Amos Trust, following a directive from Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli. At the minister's instruction, Avi Cohen Skali, the Director General of the ministry, has recommended that the Population and Immigration Authority refuse entry to individuals representing the organization. This administrative step is part of a broader effort to address what officials describe as a coordinated campaign to isolate Israel economically, culturally, and academically.

The recommendation follows a detailed investigation by the ministry, which found that Amos Trust systematically promotes boycotts of the state. The organization is also accused of supporting the imposition of sanctions and an arms embargo on Israel. According to the findings, Amos Trust operates a public advocacy network and utilizes social media campaigns to promote its positions. These digital efforts are designed to encourage activists to participate in various pressure and boycott initiatives directed at Israel.

Founded in 1985, Amos Trust describes its mission as working to promote justice for Palestinians, climate justice, and gender equality. The group frequently collaborates with other prominent entities in the field, including the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, the Palestine Platform, and the Palestinian-led BDS movement. Through these partnerships, the organization amplifies its calls for international pressure on Israel across multiple sectors.

One of the more contentious partnerships for Amos Trust is with the Gaza-based writing project 'We Are Not Numbers.' This project was launched in 2015 by the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor. The founder and chairman of Euro-Med, Ramy Abdu, has been identified by Israel's Diaspora Affairs Ministry as a Hamas operative. While Abdu has disputed these allegations, the NGO Monitor has documented alleged links between Euro-Med leadership and Hamas. These claims include reports that senior figures appeared on an Israeli list of Hamas operatives and institutions published in 2013.

Further scrutiny of the 'We Are Not Numbers' project emerged from a report by Le Monde in November 2023. The article noted that Ahmed Alnaouq, a co-founder of the project, has a brother named Ayman who was identified as a member of Hamas's military wing, the al-Qassam Brigades. This connection adds to the ongoing debate regarding the links between certain advocacy groups and militant organizations in the region.

Amos Trust is known for several high-profile campaigns, including the 'Free Marwan Barghouti' and 'Stop Arming Israel' initiatives. The organization also runs a campaign encouraging a cultural boycott of events linked to Israel. Additionally, it operates a 'Visit Palestine' travel program. This program offers participants the opportunity to experience life in the West Bank under Israeli occupation first-hand, serving as a practical component of its advocacy efforts.

Minister Chikli emphasized the rationale behind the entry ban in a recent statement. He warned that those who work to boycott Israel, isolate it, and undermine its legitimacy cannot expect the country's doors to remain open to them. Chikli stated that Israel will not serve as a host country for activists who are systematically working against the state.

The minister promised that his ministry will continue to take action against organizations that promote boycotts and the delegitimization of Israel. He framed the decision as a necessary measure to protect the country's interests while maintaining its role as a host to international visitors. The move signals a shift in how Israel engages with foreign advocacy groups that hold critical positions on its policies.

Director General Cohen Skali provided additional context, noting that Israel is not obligated to permit entry to activists representing organizations that systematically promote boycotts and sanctions. This legal stance supports the ministry's recommendation to the Population and Immigration Authority. The decision highlights the government's intention to apply consistent standards to foreign visitors who are active in campaigns against the state.

The recommendation marks a significant development in the ongoing dialogue between Israel and international advocacy groups. By targeting the leadership and representatives of Amos Trust, the government aims to send a clear message about the conditions under which foreign activists can enter and operate within the country. This approach aligns with broader diplomatic and domestic strategies to manage the impact of international campaigns on Israel's global standing.