UN Blacklists 61 More Companies Over Settlements, Including Major Israeli Firms

The United Nations has significantly expanded its database of companies allegedly involved in business activities related to Israeli settlements in the West Bank, adding 61 new entities to its "blacklist." Among the newly listed are prominent Israeli companies such as Tnuva, Netafim, Africa Israel, and Aroma Espresso Bar. The updated list now comprises 214 companies from 11 countries, an increase from 158 last year, with five companies removed. Several well-known international brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor remain on the list.

Israel has strongly condemned the database, labeling it a "political tool" and a "distorted mechanism" used for a smear campaign against companies that have committed no offenses. The "blacklist," first published six years ago, includes various banks, cellular and internet providers, and public transportation companies. Other notable additions include agricultural chemical giant Adama, which appears both through its Israeli and Chinese entities, and Mexican company Orbia, which owns 80% of Netafim.

The UN Human Rights Office report detailing the database states it provides an update following a review of claims concerning an additional 126 businesses. It specifies companies involved in activities linked to Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, reflecting the analysis of the High Commissioner's office on the nature of their involvement, applying a "framework of engagement" consistent with business and human rights principles.

The report outlines several categories of "concerning" activities, including supplying equipment for settlement construction and expansion, providing surveillance and identification gear for settlements and related barriers, supplying equipment for demolishing Palestinian property, offering security services and materials for factories in settlements, and providing services and infrastructure supporting settlement maintenance, including transportation. Financial activities aiding settlement development, use of natural resources, pollution, undermining Palestinian markets, and reinvesting profits from settlements are also cited.

The report concludes by urging states to fully respect their legal obligations under international law to protect human rights and ensure that businesses operating in conflict-affected areas do not contribute to human rights violations. It also calls on businesses to uphold their responsibility to respect human rights, taking necessary steps to cease or prevent negative impacts.