Scarlett Johansson Defends Deal With Israel’s SodaStream
by JNS.org
JNS.org – Jewish-American actress Scarlett Johansson has come under fire from human rights groups for signing a deal with the popular Israeli carbonated beverage company SodaStream.
Oxfam International, a human rights group that Johansson is involved with, took issue with her deal.
“Oxfam is opposed to all trade from Israeli settlements, which are illegal under international law,” the group said.
SodaStream has long been the target of pro-Palestinian groups for operating a factory in Ma’ale Adumim, which is across the Green Line east of Jerusalem.
But at its facility in Ma’ale Adumim, the company employees many Palestinian workers and includes an on-site mosque. Also, the city is expected to be incorporated into Israel in any peace deal with the Palestinians.
“I remain a supporter of economic cooperation and social interaction between a democratic Israel and Palestine,” Johansson said in a statement. “SodaStream is a company that is not only committed to the environment but to building a bridge to peace between Israel and Palestine, supporting neighbors working alongside each other, receiving equal pay, equal benefits and equal rights.”
Johansson is set to appear in SodaStream’s upcoming $4 million Super Bowl ad.