"Endangering the IDF": MK demands revocation of tax benefits for "Pioneers of the Bashan"
Labor party MK Gilad Kariv has called on authorities to revoke tax exemptions for the "Halutzei HaBashan" organization. He argues that the group's activists illegally cross the border into Syria, endangering IDF operations and violating state law.
"Breaking into Syrian and Lebanese territory": MK Gilad Kariv of the Labor party sent a letter on Monday to the Registrar of Amutot (non-profit organizations) and Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, demanding the revocation of income tax exemptions under Section 46a for the "Halutzei HaBashan" ("Pioneers of the Bashan") organization, whose activists illegally cross the border into Syria.
According to Kariv, the state is effectively subsidizing the organization, which promotes Jewish settlement in the Bashan region and on the slopes of Mount Hermon, by granting tax credits to its donors. "On the 'Verashta Ota' ('And you shall possess it') donation page," Kariv wrote, "it is explicitly stated that donations are recognized for tax purposes according to Section 46 of the Income Tax Ordinance."
"Violation of state laws"
"This situation stands in direct contradiction to the criteria established for granting recognition, according to which the activity of a public institution cannot involve the violation of state laws or harm public security and public order."
In his letter, the MK stated: "The 'Halutzei HaBashan' movement acts in an organized manner to promote illegal Israeli settlement in Syrian territory. Its activists try time and again to cross the border and stay in the area in a manner that is not coordinated with the IDF, endangering the forces operating in the region and harming their ability to fulfill operational missions."
"While army and police forces are forced to act against activities that undermine state laws, the state grants that same organization a public subsidy through tax credits for its donors," he added.
"Direct contradiction"
Kariv requested an immediate review of the organization's legal status: "I request an immediate examination of the continued validity of the approval granted to the organization under Section 46, including considering its suspension until the investigation is complete. I also call for an investigation under Section 40 of the Amutot Law regarding the organization's connection to these activities and the use of donation funds."
Furthermore, he added: "If it is found that the organization's actions are contrary to the law, measures should be considered under Section 49 of the Amutot Law, up to and including filing a request for its dissolution. One must not accept a situation in which IDF soldiers and Israel Police officers are required to act against initiatives that endanger soldiers and civilians, while the framework raising funds for them simultaneously enjoys state-sanctioned tax benefits."
