In a rare and forceful statement, Anglican bishops in the UK have declared that Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza can no longer be considered a defensive response, but has shifted into what they call an “offensive war.”

Gathered at a conference in York, the bishops issued a formal statement calling for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of humanitarian access to Gaza. While unequivocally condemning the October 2023 Hamas attacks as “horrific,” they argued that Israel’s response has now far exceeded the bounds of proportional self-defense, according to CP.

“The level of suffering among civilians, the destruction of infrastructure, and the ongoing blockade of essential aid — these point to a strategy that is not about defense, but domination,” the statement implied. The bishops emphasized that international humanitarian law must be upheld and that Israel is obligated to comply with provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice, according to CP.

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby also added his voice, warning that “the scale of civilian casualties and the humanitarian catastrophe can no longer be morally justified,” according to CP.

This intervention by church leaders marks a significant moment in faith-based advocacy, as they move beyond theological reflection to direct engagement with international justice and the ethics of war. Their message is clear: the Church will not remain silent in the face of escalating civilian suffering.

By framing their concerns around both law and compassion, the Anglican bishops are signaling that moral clarity is needed now more than ever — not only from governments, but from faith communities as well.