The United Nations has expanded its blacklist, adding nearly 70 more companies from 11 countries for their business activities supporting Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. The list now includes 158 firms, mostly Israeli, but also features companies from the United States, Canada, China, Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The settlements are widely considered illegal under international law and remain a focal point of global dispute.

The companies added sectors such as construction, security, travel, and financial services. Newly listed firms include Heidelberg Materials (Germany), Steconfer (Portugal), and Ineco (Spain). Heidelberg Materials said its inclusion was “not justified.” Steconfer described its role as “neutral, apolitical,” and focused on improving public transport for all residents. The United Nations notified companies of their status and provided an opportunity for response.

UNITED NATIONS STATEMENT AND PROCESS

The UN Human Rights Office stressed that businesses in conflict areas must avoid contributing to human rights abuses. Spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani stated, “Businesses working in contexts of conflict have a due diligence responsibility to ensure their activities do not contribute to human rights abuses.” The blacklist, created after a Human Rights Council resolution nearly a decade ago, aims to increase transparency on corporate activities tied to settlements. The Council has no legal authority to enforce actions.

ISRAELI GOVERNMENT REACTION

Israel has strongly criticised the list, stating it “categorically rejects” the publication. The Israeli diplomatic mission in Geneva said, “This database is meant to serve as a blacklist against businesses that have committed no wrongdoing,” and called on allies not to support the effort. Israel maintains it will not dismantle West Bank settlements and continues to approve new developments.

The blacklist’s expansion comes as Israel advances settlement projects and some European countries recognise a Palestinian state. The international community continues to debate solutions, with over 500,000 Israelis in the West Bank and more than 200,000 in east Jerusalem. Gaza’s future remains uncertain, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ruling out an independent Palestinian state. The Human Rights Council’s actions highlight rising diplomatic pressure on Israel amid ongoing conflict and scrutiny.

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Inputs from Associated Press