Civil society organisations , including Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) have issued an open letter calling for the cancellation of Lynas’ rare earth supply contract with the US Department of Defense, expressing concerns that the materials could be used in military operations in Palestine and contribute to human rights violations. The groups also raised concerns about the use of rare earths in weapons systems and environmental and health risks associated with Lynas’ operations in Malaysia. Lynas has received investment from Japanese companies and government-affiliated institutions, including Sojitz Corporation and the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, prompting calls for action from Japan.

In August, Business and Human Rights Centre invited Lynas Rare Earths, Sojitz Corporation, and JOGMEC to respond to the allegations. Only Lynas Rare Earths responded.