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Palestinian Family Alleges Decades-Old Land Seized Is Now Rented Out Online
An advocacy group alleges that Booking.com lists properties built on land claimed by Palestinian families in 14 Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The report highlights a Neve Daniel listing tied to land the al-Sbeih family says was seized in the early 1980s. The issue intersects with international law debates and a Dutch criminal complaint over potential money-laundering implications of settlement-related activity.
Why It Matters
The case touches on land rights in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and how global platforms operate in disputed areas, in the context of international law and regulatory scrutiny.
Timeline
5 Events
Booking.com response and policy statements
May 15, 2026
Booking.com defended its position, saying it helps people travel and does not decide where customers can visit. The company said it monitors developments and applies its human rights policies in conflict-affected areas, and that it will take appropriate action.
Dutch prosecutors reviewing criminal complaint linked to Booking.com listings
May 15, 2026
A criminal complaint linked to Booking.com's settlement-related listings is under review by prosecutors in the Netherlands, which may involve Dutch money laundering laws.
Booking.com listings identified across West Bank settlements
May 15, 2026
Ekō identified 41 listings on Booking.com across 14 Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including areas around East Jerusalem and the Dead Sea. The group alleges some listings are on land seized from Palestinian families over several decades.
ICJ advisory opinion on settlements issued
July 2024
The International Court of Justice issued an advisory opinion in July 2024 stating that Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are unlawful and that countries and organisations should not recognise their legality.
Land seized from al-Sbeih family in early 1980s linked to Neve Daniel
1981
Mohammad al-Sbeih, a Palestinian resident from al-Khader near Bethlehem, says his family lost around 12 acres of farmland after it was taken over in the early 1980s. He states the land is now part of the Neve Daniel settlement, where a house is listed on Booking.com as a holiday rental.