The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has called for an end to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, urging the UK government to take a stronger stance on the issue. In a speech at the General Synod, Welby described the occupation as a 'source of immense suffering' and a 'barrier to peace' in the region.
Welby's call for action
Welby stated that the occupation is 'illegal under international law' and that the UK must 'use its influence' to bring about a resolution. He highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, noting that over 2 million Palestinians are living under conditions of 'severe deprivation'. According to Welby, the UK government should 'publicly acknowledge the illegality of settlements' and 'impose sanctions on those who facilitate them'.
Reactions to the speech
The speech received mixed reactions. The Palestinian Ambassador to the UK praised Welby's 'moral clarity', while the Israeli Embassy criticized the remarks as 'unhelpful' and 'one-sided'. A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office said they 'respect the Archbishop's views' but reiterated the government's commitment to a 'two-state solution' without specifying immediate actions.
Broader context
Welby's comments come amid increased international scrutiny of Israeli policies in the occupied territories. The International Court of Justice recently ruled that the occupation is 'unlawful', and several UN resolutions have called for its end. Welby urged the Church of England to 'pray for peace' and to 'support Palestinian Christians' who are 'caught in the conflict'.
