The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has issued a public apology for his previous decision to decline a meeting with Rev Dr Munther Isaac during his UK visit.

The refusal came after Dr Isaac shared a platform with Jeremy Corbyn at a pro-Palestinian rally.

Dr Isaac, the pastor of the Christmas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, has been a vocal critic of Israel's actions in Gaza, particularly following the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7.

Dr Isaac gained attention in the lead-up to Christmas when a photo of his Nativity scene with baby Jesus amid rubble went viral.

He was one of the speakers at a recent London rally organized by the Palestinian Solidarity Campaign, where thousands gathered to call for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Additionally, he led a prayer vigil outside the House of Commons, reiterating his plea for a ceasefire.

In his statement, Archbishop Welby acknowledged that it was "wrong" not to meet with Dr Isaac. The two are now scheduled to meet in the coming week.

"Recently I declined to meet with Rev Dr Munther Isaac during his UK visit," he said.

"I apologise for and deeply regret this decision, and the hurt, anger, and confusion it caused.

"I was wrong not to meet with my brother in Christ from the Holy Land, especially at this time of profound suffering for our Palestinian Christian brothers and sisters. I look forward to speaking and praying with him next week."

Dr Isaac has welcomed the apology. 

"Thank you Archbishop Justin Welby," he tweeted. "I welcome this statement, and I look forward to our meeting next week as brothers in Christ."