UK charity supporting IDF veterans falls victim to ‘£1 million fraud’

The charity said it is pursuing “every possible avenue” to recover the funds and understand that “at least two other organisations have been targeted by the same perpetrators”.

Wolfson and Gelding went on to say the charity has taken steps to ensure such a fraud cannot happen again by implementing “financial controls and oversight measures” to protect it in the future.

The letter went on: “Our mission, to support brave IDF veterans and victims of terror, is more vital than ever. We will not allow this criminal act to derail the work we do or the impact we strive to make.

“While this situation has been incredibly difficult, it has also reinforced our commitment to transparency with our supporters. We also feel it is our duty to raise awareness among other small charities that transfer funds internationally, especially to Israel.”

Beit Halochem Centre, Jerusalem (Photo: Beit Halochem)[Missing Credit]

Beit Halochem, which translates to “House of Warriors” was established in 1949 following Israel’s War of Independence to support veterans who have been wounded in the line of duty, as well as civilian victims of terror.

It operates state-of-the-art rehabilitation centres across Israel, providing a range of services such as physiotherapy, psychological support, hydrotherapy and occupational therapy.

The facilities care for over 62,000 veterans in Israel, with at least 14,000 joining since October 7 and the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.