December 23, 2019 5:45 pm
The United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) is set to publish a highly-contested report about Israeli businesses that operate in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights, Hebrew-language outlet Ynet reported on Sunday.
The designation of Israeli companies has been referred to as “blacklisting” as Israelis fear move could have negative effect on investment in the country.
The UN report is expected to be published at the end of next month, after having been postponed a few times in the past.
This latest development comes as another international blow to the Jewish state after the chief International Criminal Court prosecutor announced Friday a probe into suspected war crimes on Palestinian territories.
Ynet reported that the US administration has operated behind-the-scenes in an attempt to halt the UN’s conduct, but it is unclear if it will be successful.
Washington is reportedly pressurizing UNCHR High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet of Chile to pull the controversial report, with US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman briefing Israeli sources on the matter.
US Republican and Democrat congressmen alike have addressed Bachelet, sending a message that should the “blacklist” be published, the United States will engage in harsh steps against the UNCHR.
“I am obliged to enforce the mandate of the Commission and intend to report to the Council as requested,” Bachelet told the UN Security Council in a letter made public. “My office will continue to dedicate itself to the matter with the aim to conclude its activity in the upcoming months.”
Among the Israeli companies notified by the commissioner for potential inclusion: HOT, Hapoalim and Leumi banks, Bezeq, Egged, Coca Cola, Cafe Cafe, Teva, Rami Levy, Partner, and more.
Source: Matzav & i24 News