UN report identifies 158 firms linked to ‘Israeli’ settlements

The United Nations on Friday released a new update to its controversial database of companies with business ties to ‘Israeli settlements’, listing a total of 158 firms from 11 countries. 

Among the prominent international companies that remain on the database are travel giants Airbnb, Booking.com, and Trip Advisor, along with tech firm Motorola Solutions. 

These companies are identified for activities deemed to be supportive of the settlements, such as providing services or infrastructure.

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In a notable change, companies including French rail manufacturer Alstom and Spanish online travel agency Opodo were removed from the list.

Removals typically follow a UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) review indicating the companies have ceased or are no longer involved in the specified settlement-related activities.

The database, formally known as a list of companies involved in activities "raising particular human rights concerns" in the occupied Palestinian Territory, is dominated by ‘Israeli’ firms, but also includes companies from countries such as the United States, Canada, China, and several European nations.

‘Israel’ has historically condemned the database as a "blacklist" and a tool for the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. 

The UN, however, maintains that the database is a transparency tool intended to help businesses conduct human rights due diligence in line with international principles.