Archbishop of Canterbury demands respect for international justice opinion on ending occupation of Palestinian territories

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby called on governments around the world to respect the conclusion of the International Court of justice that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal, stressing that the law should not be applied “selectively”.

WAFA quoted Welby in a statement issued by him: “the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice makes it unequivocally clear that the presence of ”Israel” in the Occupied Palestinian territories is illegal and must be ended as soon as possible.”

“At a time when the world is witnessing increasing violations of international law, it is necessary for governments around the world to confirm their unwavering commitment to all decisions issued by the International Court of Justice, regardless of the situation, as international law protects our common humanity and preserves human dignity, so we must apply the law without fear or favor in all circumstances,” he added.

“The system imposed by successive Israeli governments in the Occupied Palestinian territories is that of systematic discrimination, starting with the annexation of territories and the construction of illegal settlements, denying Palestinians access to their natural resources, imposing a military system that deprives them of safety and Justice, depriving the Palestinian people of dignity, freedom and hope,” he said, stressing that ending the occupation is a legal and moral necessity.

The ICJ affirmed in an advisory opinion last month that the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories must end as soon as possible.

Amal Farhat