UN Blacklists 61 More Companies Linked to Israeli 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." The updated roster now includes major Israeli corporations such as Tnuva, Netafim, Taavura, Africa Israel, Alony Hetz, Energix, and Maman Cargo Terminals. Prominent consumer brands like Aroma Espresso Bar, Burger Ranch, Cafe Joe, Carmel Winery, English Cake, and Teperberg Winery have also been added.

The international presence on the list has grown with the inclusion of agrochemical giant Adama (both its Israeli operations and Chinese parent company) and Mexico's Orbia, which holds an 80% stake in Netafim. International corporations already on the list, including Airbnb, Booking, Expedia, and Motorola, remain included. In total, the new database comprises 214 companies from 11 countries, up from 158 last year, with only five companies removed. The Dates Growers Association "Hadikalim" has been re-added to the list a year after its removal.

Other companies and organizations added to the report include Mishk Energy, Tralite, Gihon Water Corporation, Psagot Winery, Jerusalem Wineries, and the City of David Foundation. Israel vehemently condemned the publication of 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 by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. The updated report details the types of business involvement that led to inclusion, such as supplying equipment and materials for settlement construction and infrastructure, providing surveillance, security, and demolition equipment, engaging in financing activities for construction, and utilizing natural resources.

The UN's conclusions call on states and businesses to uphold their obligations under international law and ensure they are not contributing to human rights violations. Israel's Foreign Ministry stated that the list is a "corrupt political mechanism" born from the "fundamentally flawed" Human Rights Council, which has an automatic anti-Israel majority based on "reports" funded by unidentified sources. The ministry asserted that the blacklist exists solely to harm Israel and is an illegitimate human rights mechanism, criticizing the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, for turning the office into one of boycotts against Israel.

Israel highlighted its strong economy and noted that, unlike the High Commissioner's office, Israeli businesses in the West Bank provide employment for Palestinians, serve as a bridge between communities, and exemplify coexistence.