WCC News: WCC condemns escalating violence in the Middle East

World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay condemned the escalating violence in the Middle East, including Israel's recent airstrikes on Iran and its ongoing military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.  23 November 2022, Bethlehem, Palestine: A man walks across the street that marks the edge of the Aida camp, established in 1950 by UNRWA and located between the municipalities of Bethlehem, Beit Jala and Jerusalem. The camp is partly surrounded by the separation wall raised by Israeli authorities to block off the West Bank. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 29 October 2024 “These actions not only endanger countless civilian lives but also constitute grave violations of international law, pushing the region closer to a wider and devastating conflict,” he said. "We urgently call on all parties to exercise immediate restraint.” Pillay noted that an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon is essential to prevent further loss of life and suffering. “Only through halting these hostilities can we pave the way for meaningful dialogue, which remains the only viable path to a sustainable and just peace,” he said. A recent vote by the Knesset to ban the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)’s operation in Israel could lead to the closure of its headquarters in East Jerusalem. “We strongly condemn this unprecedented legislation, which effectively targets a UN humanitarian agency, poses a severe threat to the crucial work of UNRWA—a body that has, for over 70 years, provided indispensable aid and relief to Palestinian refugees,” said Pillay. “In solidarity with those affected in Gaza, Lebanon, and throughout the Middle East, we appeal to the international community and faith communities around the world to join us in advocating for an end to this destructive cycle of violence.” Pillay concluded: “We call for a renewed commitment to international law, diplomacy, and respect for human dignity and sovereignty, which are essential for building a lasting and peaceful future for all people and nations in the region.” Read the WCC Statement on the escalating violence in the Middle East 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 Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland