jfid – Skechers is one of the well-known shoe brands from the United States, offering a variety of shoes for men, women, and children.
Skechers is recognized for its comfortable, fashionable, and high-quality footwear. However, behind its success, Skechers has also been involved in political controversy related to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Founded in 1992 by Robert Greenberg, a Jewish entrepreneur and the founder of the LA Gear shoe brand, Skechers is headquartered in Manhattan Beach, California, and has over 3,000 stores worldwide. Skechers also operates factories in China, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
Skechers entered the Israeli market in 2007 by opening its first store in Tel Aviv. Skechers Israel is a subsidiary of Skechers USA, operating independently. Skechers Israel claims to remain apolitical, focusing solely on business. However, they acknowledge their support for the state of Israel and its military.
According to Israeli media reports, Skechers Israel has donated shoes to the Israeli soldiers stationed at the Gaza border in 2014 during the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Skechers Israel has also organized charity events to raise funds for the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), providing assistance to Israeli soldiers and their families.
These actions by Skechers Israel have faced criticism and protests, particularly from pro-Palestinian activists calling for a boycott of products supporting Israel.
The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement is one such effort urging global communities to boycott Israeli products and companies associated with Israel, including Skechers.
In Indonesia, Skechers has also been a target of boycott by some members of the population sympathizing with Palestine.
This boycott intensified after the Indonesian Council of Ulama (MUI) issued a fatwa declaring support for Israel’s aggression against Palestine, directly or indirectly, including by purchasing products from companies openly supporting Israel.
However, Skechers Indonesia denies any association with Skechers Israel or support for Israel. Skechers Indonesia states that they are a local company established since 2011 with a license from Skechers USA.
They also claim never to have donated shoes or funds to Israel or related organizations.
Skechers Indonesia encourages the public not to be influenced by unfounded issues and to continue choosing Skechers for its comfort and quality.
Skechers Indonesia also respects the people’s right to choose products in line with their beliefs and values.
