WCC news: WCC urges respect for human life as Middle East violence escalates

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed grave concern over the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East. “The situation has deteriorated significantly following the attack on Golan Heights, the subsequent Israeli attack in Beirut, and the assassination in Tehran on 30 July,” he said. “These attacks have not only intensified the conflict but have also entailed violations of the sovereignty of multiple nations.” Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 31 July 2024 Pillay urgently called for political dialogue and negotiations. “The current cycle of violence serves only to deepen the threat and the suffering of all people involved,” he said. “We call for an immediate cessation of all military actions and urge all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue aimed at restoring peace and stability.” He acknowledged that the Middle East region urgently needs peace. “The people, especially the most vulnerable, deserve to live in dignity and security,” he said. “The youth of the region, who represent the future, need hope and opportunities to realize their full potential in a stable, secure, and prosperous environment.” Pillay, on behalf of the global fellowship, called on all parties involved to cease all attacks, respect human life, adhere to international law, and engage in dialogue. “We appeal to the international community to support efforts for peace and justice in the region,” he said. “It is imperative that all stakeholders work together to foster an environment where human dignity, rights, and justice are upheld.” The WCC, he added, remains committed to advocating for peace and reconciliation, and stands ready to support any initiatives that contribute to these goals. “Our prayer is that all hostilities and violence in the region would cease, and that political leaders and others would dialogue and work together for the good of all people in this context,” he concluded. Read the full statement See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland