Both Israel and the United States are working to block a vote on Thursday, 14 Adar-II that would result in a condemnation of settlements and compel the UN to establish a blacklist of businesses based in Yehuda and Shomron. The resolution is the initiative of Egypt and other Muslim countries. If passed, the economic and political ramifications would be very serious for Israel and the businesses based in those areas.

Should the resolution pass it would be another blow against the Israeli battle against BDS for the resolution states the businesses in Jewish communities throughout Yehuda and Shomron are in violation of international law. The resolution also warns businesses around the world not to deal with these businesses, and not to assist them in any way for doing so may result in becoming a partner to human rights violations.

Article 17 of the resolution is particularly worrisome to Israel. Israeli diplomatic officials around the world during recent weeks have been working to enlist support for Israel’s position against the resolution.

Article 17 would also compel the UN Human Rights Commissioner to establish a list that would be updated annually containing all the businesses around the world that have an involvement in businesses in Yehuda and Shomron. This includes anything such as security equipment, housing construction equipment and banking and business services to cite a few examples.

Haaretz quotes a senior PA (Palestinian Authority) official stating PA Chairman Abu Mazen and senior official Dr. Saeb Erekat are determined to have Article 17 included and signal they are unwilling to pull it.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)