Israel gathered data on NGOs suspected of supporting BDS, internal file shows

An internal Israeli government document obtained by Al Jazeera reveals that state authorities have compiled detailed information on a range of domestic and international organizations they consider to be supportive of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. The file, dated 2023, lists NGOs, academic institutions, and activist groups, describing their activities, funding sources and alleged connections to BDS campaigns. According to the document, the Ministry of Strategic Affairs coordinated the data‑gathering effort, employing surveillance tools and open‑source research to map networks that the government deems hostile to its diplomatic objectives.

The disclosure adds to a series of reports indicating heightened Israeli scrutiny of BDS supporters, a stance the government has justified as a security measure. Critics argue that the systematic collection of such data could infringe on civil liberties and freedom of expression, while Israeli officials maintain that monitoring is necessary to counter coordinated efforts that aim to delegitimize the state. The Al Jazeera report underscores ongoing tensions between security policies and advocacy activities, highlighting the broader debate over the balance between national interests and democratic rights.