Israel – Palestine conflict policy statement (Adopted by Council 16 September 2025)
The CSP supports a two state solution to the conflict in Israel and Palestine, with security and prosperity for both Palestine and Israel. We therefore welcome moves by the British and other governments to recognise the State of Palestine and oppose any moves by the Israeli state to permanently occupy, annex or settle Israelis in Gaza.
We call for all parties to the conflict, and those who have influence over them including the UK Government, to:
- establish an immediate multilateral, permanent, ceasefire
- release all hostages, healthcare workers and civilian prisoners immediately
- restore access to healthcare for all
- allow the safe passage of sick and injured people out of Gaza
- end attacks on Israel and Israeli citizens
- end violence towards Palestinians in the West Bank
- allow the free flow of aid into Gaza
- respect the neutrality of health facilities and health workers
- provide access to rehabilitation, decent work and quality public services as part of the reconstruction of Gaza
- ensure that those responsible for violations of International Law are held to account by the relevant international bodies.
We urge the UK Government to:
- suspend arms sales to Israel whilst the conflict is ongoing
- restore funding to UNRWA
- impose sanctions upon individuals and entities inciting genocide against Palestinians or Jews
- suspend the Road Map for UK Israel bilateral relations whilst the conflict is ongoing.
Supporting physios through conflict
Conflict is a physiotherapy issue because physiotherapists and physio support workers deal with the consequences of war as we treat and rehabilitate the victims of conflict. However, we recognise that we have limited influence over international conflict.
Where we do take positions on conflict, we normally focus on the impacts of conflict on healthcare and the rights of our fellow trade union members. However, there are times where in response to member concerns, we may go beyond this focus in our statements.
International support
It is important that support is designed to provide what is most needed locally. Requests for practical help will come through the World Health Organisation to World Physiotherapy. World Physiotherapy will coordinate member organisations, including the CSP, to provide the support needed.
The CSP has been liaising with World Physiotherapy, who are in direct contact with the leaders of the physiotherapy associations in Palestine, Israel and neighbouring countries.
There has been no request for support in the region. At this stage of the conflict it would be virtually impossible to provide practical help in Gaza.
Working in conflict zones
CSP members already work in paid and voluntary roles around the World supporting communities facing conflict, environmental challenges and economic disadvantage.
If you want to find out more about working in this field ADAPT is the CSP recognised professional network for members working in international aid and development
Financial support
Members who want to offer financial support for humanitarian action may wish to support one of these organisations: