The Pacific Conference of Churches (PCC) has urged Pacific governments to exercise restraint as reports circulate that some may relocate their embassies in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Fiji is poised to open a new embassy in Jerusalem next week.
General Secretary Rev. James Bhagwan warned that such a move would undermine international law and clash with the region’s Ocean of Peace vision. “Such moves sit uneasily with our Ocean of Peace vision and with international law. We urge governments to avoid steps that pre-judge Jerusalem’s final status or normalise ongoing violations,” he said. He added, “Ocean of Peace means consistency: we don’t short-circuit self-determination abroad while calling for it at home.”
The PCC also called on Pacific Island nations to recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly. “Let this step be joined to clear demands, an immediate and lasting ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access, the release of all hostages and detainees, an end to occupation and collective punishment and accountability through competent international legal mechanisms,” Bhagwan stated.
The statement reaffirms support for the World Council of Churches’ position on Israeli policies, including its recognition of apartheid, and calls for targeted sanctions, divestment, and arms embargoes. “Recognition isn’t picking a side in a war, it’s choosing the side of law, dignity, and the right of peoples to be free.”
Context and potential impact
– Fiji’s plan to establish an embassy in Jerusalem would place it among a small group of countries that have moved their missions, signaling a shift in diplomatic alignment and drawing international debate. Fiji is reported to become the seventh country to open an embassy in Jerusalem, following the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, Kosovo, Papua New Guinea, and Paraguay.
– Palestinian authorities have condemned Fiji’s decision as a breach of international law and a setback to the two-state solution, while Israel welcomed the move as a recognition of Jerusalem as its capital. The divergence in views underscores the ongoing sensitivity of Jerusalem’s status in international diplomacy.
– The PCC’s stance highlights a broader Pacific emphasis on upholding international law and the rights of peoples to self-determination, while maintaining space for constructive dialogue and peaceful avenues to resolve conflicts.
Logical commentary and added value
– The PCC’s push for recognizing Palestine at the UNGA aligns with a longer-running regional approach favoring international legal norms and human rights commitments. This stance may influence how Pacific island nations navigate their own foreign policies amid competing global pressures.
– By tying the Jerusalem issue to a broader call for ceasefires, humanitarian access, and accountability through international mechanisms, the PCC frames diplomatic moves as part of a principled peace agenda rather than unilateral shifts.
Outlook
– The PCC’s message reinforces a peaceful, law-based path in the midst of a contentious international dispute. If Pacific nations pursue dialogue and adhere to international norms, there may be opportunities for increased humanitarian cooperation and regional stability, even as diplomatic realignments continue to unfold.
Summary
The Pacific Conference of Churches urges restraint over moves to relocate embassies to Jerusalem, urges solidarity with Palestinian self-determination at the UN, and supports the World Council of Churches’ stance on Israeli policies, including calls for sanctions and accountability. Fiji’s planned embassy in Jerusalem highlights ongoing regional and international tensions, but the PCC emphasizes peace, legality, and dialogue as guiding principles for Pacific diplomacy.
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