C of E bishops criticise UK inaction over Israel’s ‘West Bank de facto annexation’

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Harriet SherwoodFebruary 1, 2026 at 06:30 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Three Church of England bishops have criticized the UK government's inaction regarding Israel's actions in the West Bank, alleging it contributes to a "culture of impunity." Following a visit to Palestinian Christian communities in the occupied West Bank, the bishops expressed concern over the UK's failure to publish its legal response to the ICJ's July 2024 advisory opinion demanding an end to Israel's occupation. They cite administrative changes, settlement expansion, violence, road closures, house demolitions, and restricted access to resources as evidence of accelerated de facto annexation. The bishops highlight the increased violence by settlers since October 2023, leading to displacement and a sense of abandonment among Palestinians. They urge the international community to uphold international law and protect Palestinian communities.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Gaza Strip 40% UN 50% International Court of Justice 60% Guli Francis-Dehqani 70% Rachel Treweek 70% Graham Usher 70% Palestine ×270% Church of England 80% UK ×280% Israel ×290% West Bank ×690%

Keywords

west bank annexation 100% israeli settlements 80% palestinian communities 80% uk government inaction 70% culture of impunity 70% church of england bishops 60% settler violence 60% international court of justice 50%