GENEVA, September 29, 2026 (WAFA) - The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) discussed on Tuesday the High Commissioner’s report on the update of the database of businesses involved in activities in Israeli colonial settlements, as well as the human rights situation under Agenda Item 7.

The geographical and political groups, along with most UNHRC member and observer states, delivered statements that largely stressed the need to halt businesses’ activities in the colonial settlements, as such activities violate human rights.

The states addressed the tragic situation in the genocide-stricken Gaza Strip and the continued blockade, targeting and killing around the clock since the announcement of the Gaza ceasfire in October last year. Most speakers called for an immediate ceasefire, the entry of humanitarian aid, an end to Israeli colonists’ rampages and attacks on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, the continued expansion of colonial settlements, and the withholding of Palestinian clearance revenues.

The states called for respect for human rights and an end to violations by Israel, the occupying power, stressing that holding perpetrators to account are the path to achieving justice. Most states and groups also expressed their support for the rights of the Palestinian people and their exercise of the right to self-determination.

A number of non-governmental organizations also took the floor, highlighting daily violations and stressing the need to uphold the principle of accountability and implement United Nations resolutions.

K.F.