Paris: The Association of Jurists for the Respect of International Law (JURDI) has initiated legal proceedings against Airbnb in France, accusing the company of listing properties in Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in the West Bank. The lawsuit, reported by BFMTV, argues that Airbnb is complicit in supporting war crimes by providing listings in these contested areas and seeks a court order demanding the removal of such listings.

According to Anadolu Agency, JURDI, a non-profit organization that promotes international law in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, contends that Airbnb's actions contribute to the normalization of what they describe as a colonial regime. The group claims that by offering these accommodations, Airbnb is providing financial resources to settlers and legitimizing their presence in the occupied territories.

The legal case, spearheaded by attorney Helene Massin-Trachez, hinges on a French law that prohibits contracts violating public order. Massin-Trachez argues that Airbnb's listings constitute unlawful rental agreements, particularly for clients based in France. A preliminary hearing is set for January 13, and should the court rule in JURDI's favor, Airbnb will face significant financial penalties for non-compliance.

Airbnb, when contacted by BFMTV, refuted accusations that it profits from the geopolitical situation and asserted its commitment to handling each situation with the utmost care.

The legal action follows a recent complaint filed by the French Human Rights League (LDH) against both Airbnb and Booking.com. The LDH accuses these platforms of complicity and aggravated concealment of war crimes, pointing out their role in promoting 'occupation tourism' through listings in Israeli settlements within Palestinian territories.