Anderson calls on UN to publish blacklist of companies in illegal Israeli settlements

Sinn Féin MEP Martina Anderson has called on the UN to publish its list of firms that conduct business in illegal Israeli settlements. 

Martina Anderson said: 

"The United Nations have made it clear that the Israeli settlements built on Palestinian land are illegal. 

"By conducting business in these settlements, businesses are essentially prolonging the occupation of Palestinian territory. They contribute to the economy making the settlements economically viable.

"These illegal settlements threaten efforts at achieving a two state solution in the region, as they jeopardise the existence of one contiguous Palestinian state. As recently as 2016 the United Nations Security Council affirmed, as part of resolution 2334, that these settlements have no legal validity and are a flagrant violation under international law.

"It is important that the ‘blacklist’ of companies created by the UN is made available to the public. The people can make the choice of whether they want to support this flouting of the law and the continued oppression of the Palestinian people or boycott these firms. 

"I would encourage everyone to join the BDS campaign. Every act of solidarity is important. We need to see action from the international community to tackle these illegal settlements."