Israeli Labor Union Faces Allegations of Funding Anti-Right-Wing Campaigns with Millions

New revelations have emerged regarding the Israeli Labor Union's financial involvement in political campaigns targeting right-wing parties. Close to 3 million shekels were reportedly transferred in 2024 from the union, through its Strategy and Innovation Department led by senior official Itamar Avitan, to two digital media companies specializing in political messaging and online campaigns. Over 2 million shekels went to Spot Communications and Strategy, and more than 570,000 shekels to Lighthouse Strategies Ltd.

Avitan, who also serves as chairman of the department, is alleged to be behind an anonymous defamation campaign against right-wing politicians, the Kohelet Forum, and journalists from Channels 14 and 12. The campaign involved multiple social media pages and WhatsApp groups disseminating paid content critical of right-wing parties, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and government ministers. Some of the funds were reportedly used to promote Avitan’s personal profile and political views, including his stance on the return of hostages.

Documents indicate the payments covered online campaigns, research, public relations, media, and digital management, but do not specify exact projects. Questions remain about whether these funds were used for political propaganda against the government or for personal promotion. Avitan has declined to clarify the use of these millions from workers’ funds.

Additionally, another union official, Ya Ya Pink, is reported to have funneled money to nonprofits led by his associates, who supported his candidacy in the Democratic Party elections. The Labor Union responded by denying the accuracy of the claims, emphasizing that their Strategy and Innovation Department operates within approved budgets and oversight mechanisms, aiming to strengthen union activities and services for workers.