Ben & Jerry’s decision to end sales in occupied Palestinian territory while continuing sales in the State of Israel is a legitimate, peaceful form of protest against unlawful settlements and systemic injustice -- and is in no way a “boycott of Israel”. Ending the occupation and achieving self-determination for both Israelis and Palestinians is vital in securing Israel’s future as a peaceful, democratic homeland of the Jewish people.

Accusations of antisemitism against the company trivialize the critical fight against the very real threat of antisemitism around the world. Seeking to punish the company under anti-boycott laws would be a violation of the right to free speech and only undermines the fight against those who truly do seek to delegitimize Israel.

Rather than diverting attention through attacks on ice cream companies, we must instead confront the terrible cycle of occupation, injustice, retaliation and violence that truly undermines the rights of all Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, freedom and self-determination.