Parliament denounces Israel bds movement

German lawmakers on Friday approved a resolution denouncing the Boycott, Divest and Sanctions movement against Israel, describing its methods as anti-semitic and reminiscent of Nazi-era calls to boycott Jews.

The motion called on the German government not to support events organized by BDS or other groups that actively pursue its aims, and vowed that parliament wouldn’t finance any projects that call for a boycott of Israel or actively support the movement. It was filed by the country’s three governing parties, along with two mainstream opposition parties, and passed by a large majority.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu congratulated the parliament and expressed appreciation for its “important decision,” calling on other countries to adopt similar legislation.

The Palestinian- led BDS movement has grown in popularity in recent years. It advocates boycotts, divestment and sanctions against Israeli businesses, universities and cultural institutions.