UN Blacklists Major Israeli Companies Over Settlements

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 corporations such as Tnuva, Netafim, Taavura, Africa Israel, Alony Hetz, Energix, and Maman Cargo Terminals. The list also includes companies behind well-known consumer brands like Aroma Espresso Bar, Burger Ranch, Cafe Joe, Carmel Winery, English Cake, and Teperberg Winery.

Other additions include agrochemical giant Adama, listed both through its Israeli and Chinese entities, and Mexican company Orbia, which owns 80% of Netafim. Also included are Meshek Energy, Tralight, Hageihon, Psagot Winery, Jerusalem Wineries, and City of David. The Israeli Date Growers Association, "The Deklaim," reappeared on the list just one year after its removal. The updated database now comprises 214 companies from 11 countries, an increase from 158 last year, with five companies being removed. International names like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, TripAdvisor, and Motorola remain on the list.

Israel has condemned the database, labeling it a "political tool" and a "distorted mechanism" used for a smear campaign against companies that have committed no offense. The "blacklist" was first published six years ago and includes banks, cellular and internet providers, and public transportation companies. Other previously listed well-known companies include Delta, Electra, Mekorot, Rami Levy, Shikun & Binui, and Shufersal.

The updated report states it "provides an update of the database following a review of claims concerning an additional group of 126 businesses, detailing businesses involved in activities related to Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories." It reflects the analysis by the UN Human Rights Office regarding the nature of the involvement of the listed businesses, applying a "framework of engagement" consistent with the guiding principles on business and human rights. The request for the original database originated from the Human Rights Council, following a report by an international fact-finding mission on the impact of settlements on Palestinian rights.

The report outlines specific "concerning activities" including providing equipment for settlement construction and expansion, surveillance technology, demolition of Palestinian property, security services for settlements, transportation and infrastructure support, banking and financial activities aiding settlement development, use of natural resources, pollution, undermining Palestinian markets, and reinvesting profits from settlements into their expansion. The report concludes by urging states to fully respect their legal obligations under international law and ensure businesses do not engage in or contribute to human rights violations, and that businesses themselves must respect human rights and take steps to prevent or cease negative impacts.