UN Signals Potential Blacklisting for Israeli Settler Groups

The report recorded 38,558 grave violations globally in 2025, a figure that marks a grim milestone since the mandate began in 1996. Among these, 6,266 children were killed—a 34% increase over the previous year. Verified data confirms the deaths of 2,668 children in Gaza and 57 in the West Bank. While Israeli forces are attributed with 9,465 violations, the inclusion of settler groups as a distinct, potential future listing highlights a shift in international scrutiny.

Guterres expressed shock at the magnitude of harm, specifically citing the use of explosive weapons in populated areas and the systematic nature of attacks by settlers. He stated that these groups would be added to the so-called "list of shame" if the current frequency of violations continues into 2026. The report also maintains the blacklisting of Hamas’ armed wing for abductions and the killing or maiming of children, citing 2,806 violations by Palestinian groups.

Beyond direct combat, the UN raised significant concerns regarding the detention of Palestinian children by Israeli authorities. Reports of physical abuse and substandard conditions in custody prompted Guterres to warn that such treatment may constitute inhuman or degrading punishment. Although inclusion on the blacklist does not trigger automatic economic sanctions, it carries substantial reputational consequences, forcing states or entities to negotiate formal action plans to secure removal from the list.