Free Car Rental by Hertz Offered in Support of Israel Ground War

Hertz logo now removed/El Al website

The world's largest car franchise system asked El Al, the national airline of Israel, to withdraw an advertisement on its Web site that offered days of free car rental for those flying to Israel to show solidarity. The ad deal pushing "solidarity" was launched five days after Israel began its ground offense against Gaza.

The advertisement on the airline's site stated, "Now, more than ever is the time to come to Israel. Come express your solidarity with Israel. Fly with EL AL and receive 3 or 4 day car rental for free." A clearly visible Hertz logo was visible. That logo was removed Friday night at the request of franchisor, Hertz Corporation.

The Hertz promotion has sparked protest from the British Muslim community. 

A Hertz Corporation spokeswoman said it had not been aware of the promotion being run by EL AL and their Israeli franchise operator who trades under the Hertz brand. He added that the offer was designed, run and managed by EL AL.

"We regret if any individuals were offended by the language that EL AL used to promote this offer," said Hertz's spokesperson.

Ad from El Al Website

"The Hertz Corporation, through its franchisees, has an active presence throughout the the Middle East and has partnership agreements with several Middle Eastern airlines. Hertz has no political affiliations whatsoever and provides a car rental service to its customers wherever it is required."

"We are in touch with EL AL and have asked them to consider withdrawing the reference to 'solidarity'. However we are not in control of their website."  [via Britain's The Independent]

Once again, a global franchisor attempts to navigate the shoals of sectarian politics, dragged there by its local franchise.