Israel’s Blood Diamond Trade: A Profound Ethical Dilemma

A detailed investigation reveals Israel’s significant involvement in the blood diamond trade, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where diamonds are mined amidst ongoing violence and human rights violations, TRTWorld revealed in an article on Tuesday.

Despite having no domestic diamond resources, Israel ranks as one of the top five exporters of polished diamonds globally. The diamond industry contributes approximately $1 billion annually to the Israeli Defence Ministry, thereby financing its occupation of Palestinian territories.

The DRC, responsible for about 12% of global diamond production, primarily engages in artisanal mining, often under the control of armed groups. Researcher Habibu Djuma highlights that the profits from these minerals frequently fund militias, perpetuating violence against civilians. A 2009 UN panel formally accused Israel of illegally importing diamonds from conflict zones, particularly the Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone, raising serious ethical concerns about the nation’s trading practices.

Prominent Israeli businessmen, such as Lev Leviev and Benny Steinmetz, have faced scrutiny for their roles in the diamond trade. Leviev has been linked to funding illegal settlements in the West Bank, while Steinmetz was convicted of bribery in Guinea, further complicating Israel’s ethical standing. In 2022, Israel’s diamond exports reached approximately $9.16 billion, underscoring the industry’s entanglement with global conflicts.

Reports indicate that the Israeli diamond trade has strategically expanded its presence in Africa through new investments, often profiting from corrupt practices. This trade has raised alarms over the involvement of Israeli companies in unethical dealings, including bribery and illegal resource extraction, highlighting the complex interplay between diamonds and conflict in Africa.