The Urgency of Upholding Britain's Duty to Palestinians

The Call for Accountability

Having recently returned from a heart-wrenching visit to Palestine, it is astounding that the UK government has yet to publish its legal response to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion issued in July 2024. This stonewalling is not just indifferent—it actively contributes to a culture of impunity that the Israeli government has exploited to accelerate its de facto annexation of the West Bank.

“The situation in the West Bank is a tragedy foretold.”

Inaction and Its Consequences

The instruments used by Israel in this occupation are multifaceted—ranging from administrative changes to continuous settlement expansions and escalating violence perpetrated by both the military and settler militias. Families, often living in fear, find their basic rights stripped away through road closures, house demolitions, as well as restricted access to essential resources like water and electricity.

While world leaders gathered at Davos to deliberate on grand plans for the reconstruction of Gaza, I stood with Palestinian Christian communities in the West Bank, listening to their stories of anguish. The overwhelming sentiment is one of fear and despair; families are caught in an unending nightmare, robbed of dignity, and often left with no means to provide for their loved ones.

Violence as a Strategy

Imagine living in a reality where fear becomes a constant companion. Many Palestinians feel cornered—sensing that their only options are to either flee or endure the oppressive conditions indefinitely. This mirrors a broader construct that seems intentional on the part of the Israeli government.

The International Obligation

The responsibilities of the international community cannot be overstated. The only viable pathway forward involves adhering to international law and the guidelines set forth by the ICJ. With the UK officially recognizing the state of Palestine, it is imperative for the government to respond appropriately—essentially, to ensure that they do not inadvertently support Israel's unlawful actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as outlined by the court.

The Road Ahead

The ongoing tragedy in the West Bank is not just an issue for those who reside there but a global moral imperative. Our governments must exhibit moral courage and act decisively before it is irrevocably too late. Failure is not only an option; it's a judgment on us all.