On November 5, 2024, the Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) released a Dari-language article titled "Why Should Islamic Countries Boycott Brands Like Coca-Cola And Pepsi?" One of the five reasons given is that portions of the revenues of multinational brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi reach the Israeli economy and military.
"These profits help Israel produce and purchase weapons, increasing its power in its battles against the Palestinians. With every soft drink consumed from these brands in Islamic countries, funds are inadvertently provided for repressive measures, often resulting in the suffering of innocent Palestinian children, women, and families," it says.
Following are excerpts from the article:
"The Revenues Of Multinational Brands Such As Coca-Cola And Pepsi Are Indirectly Injected Into The Economy And Military Of Israel"
"In a world where injustice and violence take on new dimensions every day, the endless war against Palestinians by the child-killing regime of Israel is one of the most tragic manifestations of this bitter reality. Amid this humanitarian crisis, commercial giants like Coca-Cola and Pepsi indirectly strengthen the financial flow of this violence. The immense revenues these companies earn from the sale of their products often contribute to bolstering Israel's economy and military resources, resulting in the continuation of violence and wars. Islamic countries and Muslims worldwide, who believe in peace, justice, and human rights, must pay attention to this issue and reconsider the use of these brands' products in their daily lives.
"Why Should Islamic Countries Boycott Brands Like Coca-Cola And Pepsi?
"1. Profitability For Funding Violence And Bloodshed
"The revenues of multinational brands such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi are indirectly injected into the economy and military of Israel. These profits help Israel produce and purchase weapons, increasing its power in battles against Palestinians. With every soft drink consumed from these brands in Islamic countries, funds are inadvertently provided for repressive measures, often resulting in the suffering of innocent Palestinian children, women, and families.
"2. Moral And Religious Conflict With Islamic Values
"Islam, as a religion rooted in peace and justice, condemns all forms of support for violence, war, and oppression. In this context, using products from Coca-Cola and Pepsi, whose revenues indirectly benefit Israel, is seen as conflicting with Muslims' ethical and religious principles. Many Islamic scholars and jurists, considering the harmful effects of such support, deem the purchase and use of these products haram [forbidden] and recommend that Muslims cease buying and consuming products from these brands.
"3. The Need To Boycott And Replace With Domestic Products
"Islamic countries and consumers can take meaningful steps by making informed choices and replacing foreign products with locally produced goods. By doing so, they not only support their domestic economy but also prevent funds from entering the economic cycle of the child-killing Israeli regime. Supporting local brands and products not only strengthens the internal economy but also has positive social and political impacts, thereby halting the indirect funding of war and violence."
"Boycotting Products From Brands Like Coca-Cola And Pepsi Sends A Strong Message From Islamic Countries And Muslims To The International Community"
"4. Positive Outcomes Of Boycotting Coca-Cola And Pepsi
"Boycotting products from brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi sends a strong message from Islamic countries and Muslims to the international community. This action demonstrates Muslim solidarity against war-mongering and violence, signaling to the world that oppression and injustice under the guise of economic and commercial interests will not be tolerated. By boycotting these brands, Muslims not only reduce Israel's revenues but also empower consumers to contribute to global peace and resistance through conscious purchasing decisions.
"5. Health Hazards Of Coca-Cola And Pepsi Beverages
"Beyond their political and economic consequences, these brands pose significant health risks. The sodas produced by Coca-Cola and Pepsi contain high levels of sugar and artificial additives, contributing to issues such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay. By eliminating these beverages, Islamic countries not only take a morally and socially positive step but also safeguard the health of their communities.
"Conclusion
"In today's world, where every purchase and choice we make can significantly affect the fate of others, Islamic countries and Muslims must consciously stop consuming Coca-Cola and Pepsi products. By boycotting these brands, a clear and powerful message of standing against oppression and supporting peace and justice can be sent to the world. This small action can gradually have a significant impact on changing the political and social conditions of the world, helping to prevent the continuation of the cycle of violence in the Middle East."
Source: AvaPress.com (Afghanistan), November 5, 2024.
