Financial Crime World

Israeli Settlements: Financial Ties Exposed

A recent investigation has uncovered the financial ties between European banks and companies to Israeli settlements, deemed illegal under international law. The report reveals that many financial institutions from across the European Union, Norway, and Switzerland are indirectly linked to settlement activities, providing loans, credits, and underwriting services worth billions of dollars.

Banking on the Occupation

Several major banks in Israel have been identified as having financial relationships with companies involved in the settlement economy.

Mizrahi Tefahot Bank (Israel)

  • Profile: One of Israel’s largest banks, with a significant presence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
    • International financial relationships: Foreign banking subsidiaries in several countries, including Turkey and the United States.
    • Shareholders: Several major Israeli corporations, including food producer Strauss Group and pharmaceutical company Teva Pharmaceuticals.

FIBI (Israel)

  • Profile: A major Israeli bank with a significant presence in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
    • International financial relationships: Foreign banking subsidiaries in several countries, including the United States and Switzerland.
    • Shareholders: Several major Israeli corporations, including food producer Strauss Group and telecommunications company Bezeq.

Tourism: A Key Driver of Settlement Economy

Tourism companies have also been identified as contributing to the settlement economy.

Booking Holdings (U.S.)

  • Profile: One of the largest online travel agencies in the world.
    • International financial relationships: Foreign subsidiaries in several countries, including the United Kingdom and France.
    • Shareholders: Several major investors, including private equity firm Silver Lake Partners and investment firm BlackRock.

Expedia (U.S.)

  • Profile: A leading online travel agency.
    • International financial relationships: Foreign subsidiaries in several countries, including the United Kingdom and Germany.
    • Shareholders: Several major investors, including private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and investment firm BlackRock.

Call to Action

The report highlights the need for governments and institutions to take action against companies involved in the settlement economy. “These financial ties are a clear indication of the level of involvement that European banks have with Israeli settlements,” said a spokesperson for the organization that conducted the investigation. “It is imperative that we hold these institutions accountable and demand an end to their support for illegal activities.”

Full Report

The full report, which includes detailed information on the financial ties between European banks and companies to Israeli settlements, can be accessed online at [insert link].