As the twelfth month of the ongoing devastating war in the Holy Land approaches, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem have issued a powerful statement expressing their deep concerns over the worsening situation and calling for immediate action to halt the violence. Despite repeated calls for peace from religious leaders and the international community, the conflict continues to escalate, pushing the region closer to the brink of a full-scale war.
The statement, issued jointly by the Christian leaders, highlights the severe toll the conflict has taken on millions of people. It notes that countless refugees remain displaced, with their homes either destroyed or inaccessible, while hundreds of innocent lives are lost or irreparably harmed each week due to indiscriminate attacks. The suffering extends beyond the battlefield, with many enduring hunger, thirst, and the spread of infectious diseases. The statement also brings attention to those held in captivity on all sides, who face the added danger of ill-treatment.
The Christian leaders expressed their frustration with the protracted ceasefire negotiations, which have been marred by delays and political maneuvering rather than genuine efforts to end the violence. These delays, coupled with provocative actions, have heightened tensions and increased the risk of a broader regional conflict.
In their plea, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem urgently called on the leaders of the warring parties to heed the calls for peace and comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735, which demands an immediate ceasefire. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive peace agreement that includes the release of captives, the return of displaced persons, the treatment of the sick and wounded, and the rebuilding of civilian infrastructure.
The statement also stressed the importance of addressing the underlying grievances that have fueled the conflict. The Christian leaders urged all parties, in collaboration with the international community, to engage in diplomatic discussions aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace in the region through the adoption of an internationally recognized two-state solution.
While advocating for the well-being of all inhabitants of the region, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches expressed particular concern for the Christian communities under their care, especially those seeking refuge in Gaza at St. Porphyrios Orthodox Church and Holy Family Catholic Church, as well as the staff and patients of al-Ahli Anglican Hospital. They pledged their continued prayers and support for these communities, both now and in the post-war period, when efforts will be made to rebuild and strengthen the Christian presence throughout the Holy Land.
In their closing remarks, the Christian leaders appealed to Christians and all people of goodwill worldwide to embrace a vision of life and peace for the war-torn region. Quoting Christ’s words, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9), they called for a renewed commitment to work and pray for peace, hoping that by the grace of God, this sacred vision may one day become a reality.
