"Corrupt political mechanism": The UN's new move against settlements

The UN expanded its "blacklist" against companies operating in settlements in Judea and Samaria, adding 61 companies. The Foreign Ministry sharply attacked the move, calling it a "corrupt political mechanism" and accusing Commissioner Volker Türk of turning into the "Commissioner of Boycotts." Jerusalem made clear that the fight against UN policy will continue.

The UN expanded its "blacklist" of companies operating in settlements in Judea and Samaria, adding 61 additional companies. The list was created following a resolution by the UN Human Rights Council and focuses specifically on business activity in the Israeli-Palestinian context. The Israeli Foreign Ministry sharply attacked the move, calling it a "corrupt political mechanism" born in the Human Rights Council, a body they say is fundamentally flawed with an automatic majority against Israel. The Israeli attack also targeted Commissioner Volker Türk, who was accused of turning into the "Commissioner of Boycotts" against Israel. Jerusalem called on Türk to end his tenure, claiming he led wasteful mechanisms whose sole purpose is to pursue Israel. In contrast, the Foreign Ministry presented the economic contribution of Israeli businesses in Judea and Samaria, arguing that business activity provides jobs for Palestinians and serves as a bridge between communities. The list does not impose direct sanctions but could be used by organizations and investors to apply economic pressure. The Foreign Ministry made clear that the Israeli fight will continue on several fronts.