Ben & Jerry's Co-Founder Detained During Senate Demonstration Over Gaza Conflict

In a recent protest in the U.S. Senate, Ben Cohen, co-founder of the renowned ice cream brand Ben & Jerry's, found himself in handcuffs after challenging governmental actions related to military support for Israel amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. The protest took place during a Senate committee hearing where Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was giving testimony, resulting in chaos as activists, including Cohen, interrupted proceedings. Cohen was subsequently charged with a misdemeanour offence for obstruction, while other protesters potentially face more severe charges.

Cohen expressed his frustrations post-arrest, stating, "Congress kills poor kids in Gaza by buying bombs, and pays for it by kicking kids off Medicaid in the US." This activism is in alignment with Ben & Jerry's long history of taking firm stances on social issues, despite a complicated relationship with Unilever, the parent company since 2000. Tensions have escalated between the two since Cohen and the brand took a stand against Israeli actions in the West Bank, which is now the subject of a legal dispute. Unilever clarified that Cohen’s actions were personal and not representative of the company's views. Meanwhile, the company's board has intensified calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, reflecting the deepening urgency surrounding the humanitarian crisis in the region.

Ben & Jerry’s has long been known for advocating for various social and political causes since its inception in 1978. The company continues to navigate complexities in its corporate structure while addressing pressing global issues.