Guinness World Records rejects application from Israel: Report

Guinness World Records (GWR) has declined to accept a record attempt application submitted from Israel, according to a report by Israel's Channel 12 television. The application was made by Matnat Chaim (The Gift of Life), a non-profit organization that promotes kidney donations. The report states that the UK-based records authority cited a current policy of not processing applications originating from Israel as the reason for the rejection.

Details of the Rejected Record Attempt

The Israeli group had planned an event in Jerusalem to gather 2,000 potential organ donors, aiming to secure a world record. The application process, which reportedly involved a fee payment to GWR, was terminated. The organization's president, Rachel Heber, strongly criticized the decision, stating, "It is unacceptable that Guinness refuses to record this Israeli achievement that astonishes the entire medical world."

Policy Context and Growing Boycott Movement

While the specific reasons for the broader policy were not detailed in the report, the development occurs against a backdrop of expanding international boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaigns against Israel. These movements have gained momentum globally in response to Israel's military operations in Gaza, which began in October 2023 and have resulted in a high number of Palestinian casualties, as reported by Gaza health authorities.

Regional Reactions and Türkiye's Stance

The reported decision by a prominent international brand like Guinness is seen as a significant symbolic gesture within the context of these global campaigns. For Türkiye, a nation that has been vocal in its criticism of the civilian toll in Gaza and a consistent advocate for Palestinian rights, such actions reflect the widening international response to the ongoing conflict and the application of soft-power pressure on Israel.