Friday, June 11, 2021
Israel hailed as first country to ban fur despite loophole allowing major exceptions
Peta (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) celebrated the move as a "victory for so many" after Israel's environment minister, Gila Gamliel, signed the bill into law.
However, it is somewhat toothless, as fur will continue to be imported into the country for religious reasons.
The amendment to the Wildlife Protection Law contains a loophole that allows the import and export of pelts if they are to be used for "religion, religious tradition, scientific research, education or teaching".
Israel's main use for fur is for sable hats, known as shtreimels. A shtreimel is a fur hat worn by some Jewish men, mainly members of Hasidic Judaism, on Shabbat and Jewish holidays and other festive occasions.
While importers will have to apply for a special permit, the flow of fur in and out of the country will continue despite the new law.
Peta said it had lobbied Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and government officials to support the ban on fur.
It thanked Ms Gamliel for taking action, who responded: "Proud to to be the first country in the world to ban the sale of fur.
"Now the whole world knows we made history today, fur is no longer in fashion."
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