Scarlett Johansson has stepped down as the Oxfam International ambassador citing “fundamental difference of opinion” after she was criticized by the humanitarian group for supporting an Israeli company that is operated on the West Bank. Oxfam International strongly opposes all trade with Israeli settlements, believing they are illegal and denies any Palestinian rights reported Associated Press .
"Scarlett Johansson has respectfully decided to end her ambassador role with Oxfam after eight years. She and Oxfam have a fundamental difference of opinion in regards to the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement. She is very proud of her accomplishments and fundraising efforts during her tenure with Oxfam," said a statement released by the 29-year-old actresses spokesperson.
Serving as the global ambassador for Oxfam since 2007, Johansson became the global ambassador for SodaStream International Ltd. earlier this month as previously reported . Oxfam largely objected to this association as SodaStream has a large factory in an Israeli settlement on the West Bank.
In response to the criticism, Johansson has responded saying, “[I'm a] supporter of economic cooperation and social interaction between a democratic Israel and Palestine."
A SodaStream commercial featuring Johansson was previously supposed to air during the Super Bowl however has now been banned due to its reference to Coke and Pepsi.
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