United Nations Alleges Corporate Complicity in the Occupation and Genocide of Palestinians

Overview
In July 2025, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967 published a report describing how Israel’s military operations and settlement policies have evolved into what the report claims is an “economy of genocide.” The document alleges that a wide range of commercial actors across multiple industries have contributed materially to this process.

Key Findings
The report argues that military campaigns in Gaza and the expansion of settlements rely on a complex ecosystem of private sector support. It describes how defence manufacturers, technology companies, construction firms, energy suppliers, financial institutions, and other businesses have provided products and services that reinforce Israel’s control over Palestinian territories. According to the Special Rapporteur, these activities have not remained incidental to normal commerce but have become an integrated part of policies intended to dispossess and displace the Palestinian population.

Defence and weapons suppliers are presented as central to military operations, delivering advanced aircraft, drones, munitions and targeting systems. Technology and surveillance providers are alleged to enable systems that monitor and restrict civilian movement. Construction and heavy machinery companies are described as supporting demolitions and settlement development. The report also contends that energy suppliers have sustained infrastructure essential to both military logistics and civilian dependency, while agribusiness firms have benefitted from the exploitation of land and resources.

Financial institutions are portrayed as major enablers, providing investment, insurance and underwriting that help sustain military spending and settlement economies. Real estate platforms, tourism companies and logistics providers are described as normalising the occupation by marketing and distributing goods and services linked to settlements. Research institutions and charitable organisations are also cited as playing a role in legitimising and financing projects connected to the conflict.

Implications
While the report reflects the perspective of the UN Special Rapporteur and does not represent binding legal determinations, it is likely to increase scrutiny of businesses linked to these activities. Companies operating in affected sectors or maintaining investments in related industries may face heightened risks of legal challenges, shareholder activism, and reputational harm.
 

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