Quakers condemn US recognition of Jerusalem

Quakers in Britain have made this statement responding to the announcement from the president of the United States concerning Jerusalem.

walking in the old city, cobbled streets
Jerusalem. Photo: Madeleine

Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Quakers in Britain said:

“As Quakers, and guided by our testimonies to peace and equality, we feel compelled to speak out about President Trump's announcement that he now recognises Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

“East Jerusalem is recognised internationally as occupied Palestinian territory, with over fifteen UN Security Council Resolutions affirming this since the occupation of Palestine began in 1967. We join with others around the world, including Pope Francis and the British government, in voicing our deep concern at President Trump's announcement. We find his actions to be morally indefensible because they are deliberately provocative and against international law.

“Our desire would be to see actions which reduce the likelihood of violence and enhance chances for a just peace with dignity and security for all. We believe President Trump's decision instead gives legitimacy to the widespread human rights abuses committed by the Israeli government in the course of its 50-year occupation of Palestine, including the illegal acquisition of Palestinian land in East Jerusalem and the West Bank.

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We find his actions to be morally indefensible because they are deliberately provocative and against international law.

- Paul Parker, Recording Clerk for Quakers in Britain

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“We call on President Trump to reconsider his destabilising actions. We urge the British government to accept its historic and current responsibility towards peace in the Middle East and to take immediate steps to recognise the state of Palestine in the same way as it recognises the state of Israel.

“We thank those working for a just peace in extremely difficult circumstances and attempting to relieve tensions internationally. We stand with those calling for the status of Jerusalem to be determined only as part of peace talks between the Palestinians and Israelis."

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