Methodists welcome UK government ban on illegal Israel settlement goods

Illegal settlements mushrooming across West Bank

The President and Vice- President of the Methodist Conference have welcomed the UK government's decision to ban the import of illegal Israel settlement goods.

They say: "We warmly welcome the UK Government's commitment to ban the import of goods originating from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. This policy rightly recognises that Israeli settlements in Palestine are illegal under international law. These settlements have been built on land that has belonged to Palestinian families and communities for generations, resulting in the displacement of people from their homes, the loss of livelihoods, restrictions on freedom of movement, and the erosion of security and hope for the future.

"The continued expansion of settlements is not only a violation of international law but a profound injustice that inflicts daily hardship on Palestinian communities and undermines the prospects for a just and lasting peace.

"The Government has also affirmed that its official position is that Israel's occupation of Palestine is unlawful. We welcome this clear recognition that respect for international law must be the foundation of any meaningful path towards peace and security for all who live in the Holy Land.

"Last September, we welcomed the UK Government's announcement of its intention to recognise the State of Palestine. Today's announcement represents a further step towards holding the Israeli Government to account for its continued unlawful occupation of Palestine, and demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that UK policy is consistent with international law and the pursuit of justice."

The Revd Mark Slaney, President of the Methodist Conference.

See also:
ICN August 2025 - Bishops condemn Israeli plan to build illegal settlement separating West Bank from East Jerusalem: www.indcatholicnews.com/news/53090