A leading body of the Anglican Communion unanimously passed a resolution on Friday urging its churches to put pressure firms that support the occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel.

The Anglican Consultative Council, meeting in Nottingham, England, also said any business that supports violence against innocent Israelis should be treated in the same manner.

"If we do decide to go ahead with this, then it would be in terms of corporate engagement rather than divestment," said Brian Grieves, a U.S. Anglican clergyman, according to Reuters.

The decision follows a similar resolution taken by the Presbyterian Church (USA) to consider selling its holdings in companies that profit from the Israeli occupation. The World Council of Churches, which does not include the Roman Catholic Church, has also supported divestment.

An adviser to Britain's chief Rabbi, Jonathan Sacks, condemned the move.

"Moves toward divestment represent a flawed and disastrous course. They will do nothing to advance the twin causes of security for Israel and statehood for the Palestinians," he said according to the Guardian Unlimited.

The former Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey had previously argued against such action.

"Israelis are already traumatised and feel that the world is against them," he said, according to the New York Times.

The Episcopal Church (USA) is still considering what action it could take regarding companies involved in the demolition of homes in Israeli settlements, or other activities that involve the Israeli occupation.



Francis Helguero
Christian Today Correspondent