More than 200 companies facing UN review over Israeli settlement links

Firms are under scrutiny for their practices in West Bank outposts, which are deemed as illegal under international law

A settlement construction site in the West Bank (AP Photo/Oded Balilty, File)

The UN human rights office has said 206 companies – mostly Israeli and American – are facing a review of any business practices involving Israeli settlements which are considered illegal under international law.

In a long-awaited report, the rights office said more resources are needed to handle the complex and unprecedented task of compiling what some critics call an unfair “blacklist” and a sign of alleged anti-Israel bias at the UN.

Proponents insist companies must be held accountable for their activities in the settlements, arguing that such activities can contribute to injustices against Palestinians.

The 16-page report does not cite any companies by name. It said the rights office has spoken to 64 companies, but added that it would not release any names until all 206 companies have been contacted.

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