THE CHARITY watchdog must go further and investigate the “hundreds more British charities” funding Israeli settlements in Palestine, campaigners said after it launched an inquiry into eight organisations today. The watchdog said it plans to investigate other charities as well which “appear to expend charitable funds to support activities and/or projects within illegal Israeli settlements in Palestine.” “For years concerns have been raised about British charities donating funds to Israeli settlements with overwhelming evidence that has either been ignored or dismissed without any regard. “Serious allegations have been made about UK charities operating in illegal Israeli settlements in Palestine, so our first step is to establish the facts. “Our fact-finding will also help us develop regulatory guidance for charities, which will help ensure public trust and confidence in charities.”