WCC news: WCC expresses grave concern over military attacks against Iran

The World Council of Churches (WCC) expressed grave concern and condemned military attacks carried out by Israel against Iran, and the subsequent escalation and retaliatory strikes that are rapidly expanding across the region. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 28 February 2026 “This dangerous spiral of violence places millions of civilians at immediate risk, undermines regional and international security, and threatens already fragile economic and social stability across the Middle East,” said WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay. “The widening hostilities endanger lives, disrupt essential infrastructure, and deepen fear and uncertainty among peoples who have already endured prolonged instability and conflict.” Pillay reiterated that disputes between states must be resolved through dialogue, consultation, and adherence to international law. “Military confrontation and retaliatory escalation cannot bring sustainable security or peace,” he said. “Instead, they multiply suffering and increase the risk of broader regional conflagration with unpredictable global consequences.” The WCC called for an immediate cessation of all military actions; protection of civilian populations and critical infrastructure in accordance with international humanitarian law; urgent resumption of diplomatic engagement and political dialogue through established international and regional mechanisms; and coordinated international efforts to prevent further escalation and to restore stability. “The WCC stands in prayerful solidarity with all people and churches of the region,” said Pillay. “We urge political leaders to act with restraint, responsibility, and a renewed commitment to peaceful resolution of disputes.” Pillay urged that the path forward must be one of de-escalation, dialogue, and respect for human dignity. “Violence will not secure the future of the region; only justice, accountability, and sustained diplomatic engagement can lay the foundations for lasting peace,” 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