Christian Communities in Palestine

4. What steps the Church is taking to support Christian communities in Palestine.

7. What steps the Church is taking to support Palestinians living in Gaza and the west bank.

Despite the horrific and truly devastating situation in Palestine, Christian communities continue to be steadfast and resilient in the face of war and destruction. Last month, the Bishops of Chelmsford, Gloucester and Norwich made a joint visit, which highlighted the severe pressures facing Christian communities across the region. Sadly, attacks and intimidation continue, including the destruction of farms and olive groves, and the Israel Defence Forces and settler militias shamefully attempted to obstruct pastoral visits by the Archbishop of York to Christian families on the west bank during his last visit. We know that despite all these atrocities, it is so important that we continue long-term engagement and supportive visits to the region.

The Israeli Government’s new vetting rules have halted much humanitarian work in Gaza. The Palestinian Church committee has urgently appealed to Churches worldwide to intervene so that aid can continue. With local churches and faith-based agencies stepping up their support, can the hon. Member update us on how the Church is strengthening that appeal and helping to ensure that Gaza is not left without vital assistance?

I commend my hon. Friend for being such a strong voice on this issue. The Church shares the concerns about the hostile new vetting restrictions and how they have disrupted humanitarian operations in Gaza—they are adversely affecting both church-based agencies and international aid programmes. The Church continues to work closely with the diocese of Jerusalem and partner agencies to ensure that aid reaches those who most need it. The Anglican presence in Gaza centres on the al-Ahli hospital, which despite significant damage remains one of the only functioning health facilities in north Gaza.

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pizzaballa, recently said of Palestine:

“Peace and reconciliation are beautiful concepts, but they risk remaining mere slogans if they are not accompanied today by concrete actions, gestures and testimonies that physically demonstrate the possibility of rebuilding trust.”

Does the commissioner agree with me that Christian Churches are ideally placed to work with other faith communities to lead that rebuilding of trust?

The hon. Lady makes an important point; the issue is about how the Church works across faith-based organisations to be the leaders of peace. The Church works closely with the diocese of Jerusalem and the Anglican communion agencies, providing education, healthcare and employment across the region and in other countries, ensuring that there is co-operation across the entire Christian community.

As I said earlier, in Gaza, for example, the Church is working with the Anglican communion in supporting the al-Ahli hospital. I also point out some of the work that the Church is doing in the west bank. Assistance is being delivered through the diocesan schools, the Princess Basma Centre and local health centres, through financial support, advocacy and co-ordination, and the Church is working hard to maintain medical care, humanitarian assistance and pastoral support for all Christians and Palestinians affected by this crisis.