Document
6 February 2025
The World Council of Churches welcomes the decision by Israel's Supreme Court, ordering the return of Khirbet Zanouta Palestinians to their village in Hebron’s Masafer Yatta area in the West Bank, by 16 February, after they fled due to settler violence. The court ordered that the Israeli military and police must protect the safety and well-being of the Palestinian returnees. The court said that effort must be exerted also to keep settlers away from the village and its land. Khirbet Zanouta is in Masafer Yatta, otherwise known as the South Hebron Hills. Khirbet Zanouta Palestinians have fled their village twice in the past due to settler violence. They have been away from their homes for two years now.
The Court’s decision is a step in the right direction to bring peace, justice, and safety for all in the Holy Land. It shows that there is hope for a better future, and that humanity’s shared values can prevail. The Court relied on a memorandum submitted by Israeli legal experts who said that that the eviction amounts to forcible transfer, which is illegal under International Law and may amount to a war crime under the Fourth Geneva Convention.
The World Council of Churches supports the efforts of Israelis and Palestinians who want to build peace. The decision by Israel’s Supreme Court brings the integrity and vision needed to secure justice for both peoples.
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General secretary
World Council of Churches
