Church leaders from the United Reformed Church, and several other major Christian denominations have called on the UK government to help deter annexation of the West Bank, which could begin from 1 July.
In the statement, they stood alongside the Holy Land’s Christian leaders, who have warned that the Israeli plan to annex part of the West Bank would mean losing “any remaining hope for the success of the peace process”.
“All our Churches are committed to promoting justice and peace for everyone who calls the Holy Land their home. If annexation proceeds, it would gravely undermine international law with serious consequences for the common good of our global society.
“The UK government should do everything in its power to deter annexation. Only a robust response, working alongside others in the international community, can help to prevent this tragedy.
“We remain united in prayer that plans for annexation will be abandoned, allowing for renewed efforts towards a negotiated solution that upholds the human dignity of Palestinians and Israelis alike.”
Derek Estill, Moderator of the General Assembly, United Reformed Church
Rt Revd Dr Martin Fair, Moderator of the General Assembly, Church of Scotland
Paul Parker, Recording Clerk, Quakers in Britain
Revd Dr Jonathan Hustler, Secretary of the Methodist Conference
Rt Rev Christopher Chessun, Bishop of Southwark, Church of England
Rt Rev Declan Lang, Bishop of Clifton, Catholic Church