UN Updates List of Companies Linked to Illegal Israeli Settlements

The United Nations human rights office has added 61 companies to its database of businesses involved in activities related to illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. This update brings the total number of companies listed to 214 across 11 countries, with the majority being Israeli firms. The UN published an 18-page report on September 25, 2026, detailing the rationale for the inclusion of these companies, which were assessed based on their engagement in at least one of ten prohibited activities. These activities include facilitating settlement construction, supplying surveillance equipment, and providing banking services. The report indicates that a company must generally cause, contribute to, or have a direct link to adverse human rights impacts in the occupied territory to be included in the database. The standard of proof for inclusion is based on reasonable grounds, which is less stringent than the requirements in a criminal court. Following the assessment, the UN contacted affected companies, allowing them 60 days to provide additional information. Among the newly added companies are Spanish firm Salvat Logistica and Israeli real estate investment company Alony Hetz. Existing companies on the list include travel agencies Expedia and Trip Advisor, home-rental company Airbnb, and telecommunications firm Motorola. The report also references a July 2024 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice declaring Israeli settlements unlawful under international law, although this ruling is not legally binding.