'We neither support nor boycott': Woolworths clarifies on Israel-Hamas conflict

Woolworths has not taken a position on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

“Despite reports commending us for taking a pro-Palestinian or anti-Israeli position, we have not. Woolworths affirms we neither support nor boycott anyone. Woolworths has no political affiliations and does not support any political party, organisation or country,” the retailer said.

But it has withdrawn an Israeli product from shop shelves.

Given the “significant and credible threats” received and to safeguard its employees and customers, Woolworths said it had decided to pre-emptively suspend the sale of the one product it had on its shelves imported from Israel.

Africa4Palestine, which campaigned for a boycott of the retailer, on Thursday welcomed the “decision” by Woolworths not to stock Israeli products, saying it had been assured of this by the company's management.

“Not stocking products from Israel aligns with the principles of ethical consumerism. By not stocking Israeli products, a company demonstrates its commitment to being a socially responsible corporate citizen. We will inform our partners and progressive organisations that the #BoycottWoolworths campaign is no longer necessary.”

Woolworths said they refuse to add to division and divisiveness in a world already polarised and where misinformation, misunderstanding and suffering are fuelling heightened emotions.

“Many of us have been deeply affected in various ways by the atrocities and deaths of innocent people we are witnessing on our screens. Intolerance is on the rise and we, as an organisation, cannot and will not add fuel to the fire and will continue to seek ways to bring people together.

“The safety and wellbeing of our employees and customers is our priority. Woollies endeavours to do the right thing for our employees, our customers and society. We continue to do this as we navigate these challenging times,” said Woolworths.

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