Thu Nov 14 06:07:20 UTC 2024: ## Ben & Jerry’s Sues Unilever for Muzzling Palestinian Support

**NEW YORK -** Ben & Jerry’s has filed a lawsuit against its parent company, Unilever, alleging that the consumer goods giant has silenced the ice cream brand’s attempts to express support for Palestinian refugees and threatened to dismantle its board.

The lawsuit stems from a 2021 decision by Ben & Jerry’s to stop selling ice cream in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, citing its conflict with the company’s values. This move sparked controversy and led to some investors divesting from Unilever.

The latest lawsuit claims that Unilever has breached the terms of a 2022 settlement by blocking Ben & Jerry’s from making public statements in support of peace and human rights. This includes calls for a ceasefire, support for Palestinian refugees, and advocating for a halt in US military aid to Israel.

Unilever has also reportedly objected to Ben & Jerry’s selection of left-leaning groups like Jewish Voice for Peace and the Council on American-Islamic Relations as recipients of a $5 million donation mandated by the settlement.

Ben & Jerry’s, known for its socially conscious stance since its founding in 1978, argues that Unilever is trying to stifle its mission. Unilever has yet to comment on the lawsuit.

This latest development highlights the ongoing tension between Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever over the issue of Israel and Palestine. It remains to be seen how this lawsuit will impact the future of Ben & Jerry’s and its relationship with its parent company.

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