Jakarta, IO – The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has issued a fatwa (religious edict) prohibiting the use of pro-Israel products. This is related to Indonesia’s support for Palestinian struggle for independence.
The prohibition is spelled out in MUI Fatwa 28/2023. MUI head of fatwa KH Asroroun Niam Sholeh said that Muslim citizens are obliged to help Palestinian cause under Israeli aggression, per Bisnis Tuesday (14/11).
“Supporting parties who are known to support Israeli aggression, either directly or indirectly, such as by purchasing products from manufacturers who clearly support Israeli aggression, is haram [forbidden under Islamic law],” said Niam.
He also appealed to Muslims to as much as possible avoid transactions and use of products affiliated with Israel and brands that support colonialism and Zionism.
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According to reports from pro-Palestinian groups, there are hundreds of products suspected of being affiliated with Israel. These products cover a variety of brands, from food and drinks, to technology and fashion products. Some of them are fast food companies including McDonald’s and Starbucks.
A number of outlets have seen less customers as a result of the boycott. McDonald’s franchisees in Israel previously came under fire after announcing that they were giving free food to hospitals and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) amid the war between the country and militant group Hamas which reportedly has killed and injured hundreds of thousands of people. (un)