Japanese manufacturer Toyota has launched an investigation into the Israeli military’s use of its forklifts after a Middle East Eye (MEE) investigation found the equipment being used at weapons depots, ammunition facilities and army bases.

MEE reported that Toyota signed a 158 million-shekel ($49.8 million) contract with Israel’s Defence Ministry in 2024 to supply heavy-duty forklifts, during the first full year of the Gaza war.

Toyota Material Handling said it had contractual agreements with Israel’s Defence Ministry and its local distributor restricting the equipment to civilian use.

However, after MEE presented photographs and videos showing Toyota forklifts being used in military facilities, the company said it was investigating whether the agreements had been violated.

The company added that it would take action if unauthorised or inappropriate use was established.

The investigation also found that Toyota forklifts had been used to transport ammunition and military supplies, while Israeli military records showed maintenance contracts covering the equipment across the armed forces.

Arms industry experts questioned Toyota’s due diligence in supplying equipment to Israel amid allegations of war crimes in Gaza. They said the company could consider suspending sales if violations of its civilian-use agreements were confirmed.

Israel’s Defence Ministry declined to comment.