**Ben & Jerry's Board Condemns "Genocide in Gaza" in Latest Controversial Statement**

In a recent controversy, the board of Ben & Jerry's has labeled Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide," epitomizing the ice cream company's vocal political stance. This development surfaces four years after the Vermont-based company entered into a heated legal battle with its parent firm, Unilever, over a prior promise to cease sales in what it called "Occupied Palestinian Territory."

The board's statement, although widely disseminated and cited by numerous media outlets, has yet to appear on Ben & Jerry's official website. "Ben & Jerry's believes in human rights and advocates for peace. We join with those around the world who denounce the genocide in Gaza," the board asserted. "We stand with all who raise their voices against genocide in Gaza – from petition-signers to street marchers to those risking arrest."

Requests for confirmation from Ben & Jerry's remained unanswered, while a Unilever representative clarified that these comments are solely reflective of Ben & Jerry's board, not the company at large. "We call for peace in the region and for relief for all those whose lives have been impacted," added the Unilever spokesperson.

Ben & Jerry's board of directors operates with notable autonomy from Unilever, based on a unique ownership agreement, and often engages in progressive advocacy. This independence, however, has come at a price. Following their 2021 statement on Israel, the company faced significant backlash, including the loss of its Israeli branding and divestment from Unilever by multiple state pension funds.

Neither of the co-founders, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, both Jewish progressives originally from New York City, are currently involved with the company or its board. Cohen, who has voiced strong opposition to Israel's actions in Gaza, was recently arrested after disrupting a Senate hearing with a pro-Palestinian demonstration. He reiterated his belief that Israel is committing genocide during an interview with Tucker Carlson.

The International Court of Justice is examining allegations of genocide against Israel—a charge the nation vehemently denies. Interestingly, even some proponents of Israel have recently used the term "genocide" in light of the stringent blockade imposed on Gaza. In a controversial move, Israel has initiated a new mechanism to deliver aid, and assistance has started to flow into the region.