Controversies
In late 2025, Casa da Moeda became the subject of controversy following reports that the Portuguese state mint was producing two million coins for Israel. According to media coverage and statements from several civil society groups, the project also included an official visit by a delegation of the Israeli government to mark the start of production. The news prompted public condemnation from multiple organizations, including the Movimento pelos Direitos do Povo Palestino e pela Paz no Médio Oriente (MPPM), the Conselho Português para a Paz e Cooperação (CPPC), the Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses (CGTP-IN), and youth associations. These groups argued that cooperation between a Portuguese public company and the Israeli state was incompatible with Portugal's legal obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. MPPM stated that INCM's association with Israel constituted support to "a state that practices occupation, apartheid, and genocide", referencing findings and advisory opinions from United Nations bodies and the International Court of Justice.
On 25 November 2025, about one hundred demonstrators gathered in front of Casa da Moeda in Lisbon. Participants denounced what they described as the "impunity" of Israel and "complicity" by the Portuguese government. Speakers referenced continuing civilian casualties in Gaza following what they alleged to be repeated violations of the ceasefire by Israeli forces. PCP municipal councillor João Ferreira and CPPC president Isabel Camarinha both criticized the government for pursuing economic cooperation with Israel despite Portugal's recognition of the State of Palestine and ongoing legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice. Vice-president of the MPPM Carlos Almeida argued that any cooperation could render Portugal vulnerable to accusations before the ICJ. CPPC representatives described the coin-production contract as incompatible with Portugal's stated commitment to Palestinian statehood and human rights.
