The “Israel Bond” was created by Peoria native Sam Rothberg. These bonds are investment loans purchased by some U.S. states to support Israel. The website for Israel Bonds advertises that proceeds from Israel Bonds directly help fund Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

Since 2023, Israel’s bombing and blockade of Gaza has killed tens of thousands of people and created unlivable conditions for over 2 million. Most of those killed were women and children. Israel is responsible for the largest population of child amputees in the world. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israel’s prime minister for crimes against humanity. 

Senior Israeli officials admitted their attacks on Gaza wouldn’t be possible without U.S. support. This support includes over $20 billion in weapons provided by our federal taxes since 2023. It also includes over $2 billion in purchases of Israel Bonds by US states, paid for by our state taxes, including Illinois. 

 U.S. credit agencies have twice downgraded the Israel Bond over the last year. The Israel economy is in decline as many countries boycott Israel. Currently, the Israel Bond just barely satisfies criteria for safe investments for Illinois.