By Daniel Stefanski |
Last month, Treasurer Kimberly Yee shared that her office had “increased Israel bond holdings by $5 million.” The announcement from the Arizona Treasurer’s Office came about a month after Yee promised the increased commitment in the days following the horrific terrorist attack from Hamas in southern Israel on October 7.
“As Arizona’s Treasurer, I remain committed to supporting the State of Israel not only through my words, but through my actions. This $5 million investment in Israel supports Israel’s economic recovery while providing our taxpayers reliable returns,” said Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee. “Israel has been a longtime friend and ally of Arizona and the United States. We must stand resolute with Israel.”
According to the Arizona Treasurer’s Office, “Israel bonds serve as an investment option for individuals, institutions and nations worldwide to support the economic growth and stability of the State of Israel. Investments in Israeli bonds offer both reliable financial returns and contribute to Israel’s economic and strategic well-being.”
“The State of Arizona’s support for Israel is remarkable, and it aligns with the immediate response to the war in Israel across many U.S. states during this crucial period for the Jewish state,” said Israel Bonds President and CEO Dani Naveh. “At a time when Israel is under attack, investments in Israel bonds represent the most powerful and direct way to stand with the State of Israel and its people. This message from the people of Arizona to the people of Israel is unmistakable: You are not alone.”
The second-term Republican Treasurer has been a staunch supporter of Israel throughout her time in public service, using her platform and her office to stand with the American ally to the full extent of her authority. During her first term, Yee led the efforts to become “the first state in the country to enforce Anti-BDS laws (Boycotts of Israel) by divesting $143 million from Unilever, the parent company of Ben & Jerry’s, in response to the company ending distribution of its products in parts of Israel.”
In 2022, Treasurer Yee also notified Morningstar Inc. that they were at risk of being placed on the Arizona Treasury’s prohibited investment list for violating Arizona law by actively boycotting the State of Israel. Yee said, “It is my duty to defend Arizona’s anti-BDS law and I will ensure that Arizona does not do business with companies that are attempting to undermine Israel’s economy.”
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
