Written question asked by Fabian Hamilton (Labour) on Thursday, 9 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 (named day). It was answered by Hamish Falconer (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Jerusalem: Religious Buildings

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has made a recent assessment of the potential impact of Jordan's custodianship of the Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem on maintaining the status quo and regional stability.

Answer: The UK continues to support the historic status quo arrangements at Jerusalem's holy sites. We recognise and value the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan's essential role as custodian of the Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. The protection of these arrangements is important for freedom of religion or belief, access to places of worship, and regional stability. The UK Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion and Belief discussed the issue of access to holy sites during his visit to the Holy See in March 2026. The Government of Israel must work with religious communities to facilitate worship in line with the status quo.

Secondary information