Revealed: New details of London event promoting Israeli settlement-linked companies

Israeli developers linked to illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank are set to participate in a high-profile real estate event in London, sparking significant political and public debate over the legality and ethics of such involvement. The Great Israel Real Estate Event 2026, originally planned for 14 June, has drawn criticism from British lawmakers and activists who argue that the event promotes the sale of land in areas considered occupied territory under international law. The controversy has intensified after new details were revealed about the companies involved, many of which have ties to settlements that are widely regarded as unlawful under the Fourth Geneva Convention.

Among the participating firms is Harey Zahav, an Israeli developer that markets properties in Negohot, an illegal settlement located in the Hebron Hills. This settlement, established in the occupied West Bank, is part of a broader network of Israeli settlements that have been repeatedly condemned by the United Nations and numerous human rights organizations. Another participant is the Meshulam Levinstein Group, a conglomerate of engineering, construction, and property companies known for developing infrastructure in West Bank settlements. Additionally, the Tivuch Shelly real estate agency and Africa Israel Residences, both associated with projects in the West Bank, have also been named in the list of sponsors.

These revelations came to light when Emanuel Vatari, CEO of the Emanuel Group—one of the main organizers of the event—posted a list of participating companies on his Facebook page. The post was quickly removed, but it had already been captured by journalists at Middle East Eye. The list included several entities that have been scrutinized for their role in expanding Israeli settlements, which are often built on land claimed by Palestinians. The event’s website, however, claims that all exhibitors will provide information about properties and projects within the Green Line, the administrative boundary between Israel and the West Bank, suggesting that the companies operate within legal parameters according to their own assertions.

British politicians have responded swiftly to the controversy. Labour MP Richard Burgon has called for the event to be banned, arguing that the UK government recognizes Palestine as a state and therefore should not support activities that involve the illegal occupation of Palestinian land. Similarly, prominent figures such as Green Party leader Zack Polanski and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn have expressed opposition to the event, urging authorities to intervene. In contrast, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has stated that the government is investigating the matter and will take action if any violations of UK law are found. She emphasized that no business or organization should engage in the promotion of illegal settlements.

The organizers of the event have defended their position, stating that they are not selling land in occupied territories and that all exhibitors adhere to the Green Line policy. They have accused critics of using the event as a pretext to target Jewish communities and promote anti-Semitic rhetoric. However, the controversy continues to grow, with calls for transparency and accountability from both the public and parliamentary representatives.

As the event approaches, the situation remains fluid. While the exact venue in London has yet to be disclosed, the growing pressure from lawmakers and civil society groups suggests that the event could face further scrutiny. Whether the UK government will ultimately take decisive action remains uncertain, but the ongoing debate highlights the complex intersection of international law, real estate interests, and political activism.