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Palestinians Face Brutal Attacks, Home Demolitions and Sexual Violence at Hands of Israeli Settlers

A devastating trend of violence and displacement has been sweeping across the West Bank, leaving a trail of destruction and despair in its wake. Palestinians are facing brutal attacks, home demolitions, sexual violence, and torture at the hands of Israeli settlers, with no end in sight.

Booking.com Accused of Facilitating Illegal Settlements

In a shocking move, Booking.com has been accused of facilitating illegal Israeli settlements by allowing them to list their properties on its platform. Despite numerous calls for action from human rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, the company has refused to take steps to stop promoting these illegal settlements.

Researchers have uncovered evidence that Booking.com’s business activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) contribute to and profit from crimes against the Palestinian people. The company is accused of facilitating money laundering by allowing proceeds from illegal settlements to enter the Dutch financial system.

A Call for Action

The Netherlands must take immediate action to enforce its own laws and prevent complicity in human rights violations and war crimes. The Dutch Public Prosecutor must now decide whether to proceed with an investigation or prosecution against Booking.com.

Voices of the Community

Muhammad Mousa Manasra, a farmer from Wadi Foukin, described the devastating impact of Israeli settlements on his community:

“The village is currently surrounded by settlements from all directions. Everything is confiscated… We are totally disconnected from the Palestinian Territories.”

What Do We Want?

  • Stop companies like Booking.com from legitimizing crimes and occupation
  • Demand corporate criminal accountability for their actions
  • End the war crimes that have led to the establishment of these illegal settlements

The Way Forward

This case puts Dutch law enforcement at a crossroads. The decision to proceed with an investigation or prosecution will be crucial in upholding Dutch international legal obligations. We will keep this page updated as developments unfold.

Partners

  • The Rights Forum
  • The European Legal Support Center (ELSC)
  • Al Haq