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Israel’s Defense Ministry Rushes to Procure Dozens of D9 Heavy Bulldozers Amid Gaza Conflict
The Israeli Defense Ministry has initiated an urgent procurement of dozens of D9 heavy bulldozers, sparking concerns about its role in Israel’s occupation and human rights abuses.
The Caterpillar Connection
The Caterpillar company, which has been linked to violations related to Israel’s illegal settlement enterprise on the West Bank, will reportedly supply the equipment. Human rights organizations have repeatedly criticized Caterpillar for its involvement in these violations, including the Don’t Buy Into Occupation coalition and the American Friends Service Committee.
Ongoing Conflict and Destruction
The procurement comes amid ongoing violence between Israel and Palestinian militant groups in Gaza, which has resulted in significant destruction and loss of life. According to recent research by the Centre for Research on Multinational Corporations, Caterpillar is one of several companies profiting from Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories.
Other Companies Implicated
Other companies implicated in supplying arms and military equipment to Israel include:
- Boeing
- General Dynamics
- Leonardo
- Lockheed Martin
- RTX (formerly Raytheon)
- Rolls-Royce
These firms have been identified through the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s Arms Transfers Database and PAX’s research.
Halted Tank Exports and Rebuilding Armored Forces
In related news, a recent report by Ctech revealed that Israel has halted its export of tanks and is rebuilding its armored forces amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The report highlights the country’s reliance on international arms suppliers to fuel its military aggression against Palestinian civilians.
Smaller Companies’ Role
The Israeli army also relies on smaller companies for its military needs, although these firms are not among the world’s largest arms producers and therefore fall outside the scope of this report. A recent table published by PAX shows the arms transfers made by the six major companies to Israel between 2019 and 2023.
Call to Action
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, human rights organizations are urging consumers and governments to take action against companies complicit in Israel’s occupation and human rights abuses. By supporting boycotts and divestment campaigns, individuals can help hold these corporations accountable for their role in perpetuating violence and inequality in the region.
Take Action
- Support boycotts and divestment campaigns
- Encourage your government to take a stand against companies complicit in Israel’s occupation and human rights abuses
- Educate yourself on the issue and spread awareness about the impact of these companies’ actions on Palestinian civilians.