WCC news: WCC condemns large-scale assault on Gaza

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay strongly condemned Israel’s announced large-scale assault on Gaza City.  Photo: Paul Jeffrey/Life on Earth 21 August 2025 “Striking a densely populated area, under blockade and aid restrictions, gravely violates international humanitarian law—including prohibitions on indiscriminate attacks, disproportionate force, collective punishment, and denial of humanitarian relief,” said Pillay. “The WCC recalls the UN Security Council’s call for a ceasefire and the International Court of Justice’s provisional measures ordering Israel to halt its Gaza offensive and ensure aid access.” Pillay reiterated that these rulings are binding and must be respected. “Ongoing proceedings at the International Criminal Court underscore the urgent need for accountability,” said Pillay. “We therefore call for an immediate ceasefire, full protection of civilians, unimpeded humanitarian access, and compliance with international law.” Pillay added that all states must fulfil their duty under the Geneva Conventions to ensure respect for these obligations. “The WCC prays for all victims, calls for the release of all hostages, and reaffirms that a just peace can only be built on dignity, equality, and the rule of law,” 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 356 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