Report Exposes Funding of Illegal Outpost
A British charity, Friends of Yeshivat Shavei, has been channeling funds to support an illegal settlement in the West Bank city of Hebron, according to a report published by the Israeli human rights group Yesh Din. The report details how the charity has raised and transferred hundreds of thousands of pounds to the Shavei Hebron yeshiva, which operates in a building seized from Palestinian owners in the heart of Hebron's Old City.
Details of the Funding
Yesh Din's investigation reveals that between 2010 and 2025, Friends of Yeshivat Shavei raised over £1.2 million for the yeshiva, which is located in a compound that was originally Palestinian-owned. The charity's UK registration shows it has donated funds for security, renovations, and educational activities at the site. The report notes that the yeshiva's presence is part of a broader effort by Israeli settlers to establish a permanent foothold in the volatile area.
Legal and Political Implications
The report has prompted calls from UK lawmakers for an inquiry into whether the charity violated British laws that prohibit providing material support for illegal settlements. Labour MP Catherine West said, 'It is deeply concerning that a UK-registered charity may be facilitating activities that are illegal under international law. The Charity Commission must investigate this matter urgently.' The charity has defended its work, stating in a statement that it supports 'religious education in the historic Jewish community of Hebron' and operates within UK law.
International Law Context
Under international law, Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are considered illegal. The International Court of Justice and numerous UN resolutions have affirmed that the transfer of civilians into occupied territory violates the Fourth Geneva Convention. The UK government has consistently opposed settlement expansion, and its foreign office guidelines warn against financial transactions that could support such activities.
Reactions from Palestinian Authorities
Palestinian officials have condemned the charity's actions. Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesperson for the Palestinian Authority, said, 'This is a blatant violation of international law and a direct contribution to the suffering of the Palestinian people. We call on the British government to take immediate action to shut down this charity and hold its directors accountable.'
Charity's Response and Future Steps
Friends of Yeshivat Shavei has not yet commented on the specific allegations in the Yesh Din report. However, the charity's website states that it is 'dedicated to strengthening the Jewish presence in Hebron, a city of profound religious significance.' The Charity Commission for England and Wales has confirmed it is reviewing the report and will determine whether to open a formal investigation. If found in breach of charity law, the commission could freeze assets, remove trustees, or refer the case to law enforcement.
