The World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) expresses profound concern over the rapidly escalating violence in West Asia, as the region endures a surge in military actions and catastrophic loss of life. Recent Israeli attacks on Lebanon, followed by retaliatory strikes from Iran, have pushed the conflict to a dangerous new level.
Adding to the humanitarian crisis, over 10,000 Palestinians remain imprisoned in Israeli jails as of June 2024, many of whom are held under administrative detention without trial, according to B’Tselem. The WCRC condemns the ongoing illegal detentions, which reflect a broader pattern of human rights violations against the Palestinian people.
As the first anniversary of the October 7th, 2023 attacks by Hamas approaches, the WCRC mourns the continuing devastation. According to Human Rights Watch, the attacks, which saw Hamas militants breach Israeli borders, killed over 1000 Israelis, and took hostages, triggered a massive military response from Israel, leading to widespread destruction in Gaza. Since then, over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli airstrikes, and the region’s infrastructure has been systematically destroyed. The indiscriminate bombing of hospitals, schools, and humanitarian workers represents clear violations of international law.
“The unrelenting cycle of violence in West Asia is deeply troubling,” said Rev. Dr. Setri Nyomi, General Secretary of the WCRC. “This is not merely a regional issue, but the product of a global military-industrial complex that thrives on the perpetuation of war,” Nyomi added.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to peace, the WCRC calls for:
- An immediate ceasefire by all involved parties.
- An end to the ongoing genocide.
- The cessation of all military support to Israel.
- Full compliance with the guidelines of the United Nations and the International Court of Justice.
The WCRC urges all parties to return to dialogue and diplomacy rather than resort to further acts of violence. It also calls on its member churches to continue praying and advocating for justice, with particular emphasis on securing a just and lasting peace in Israel and Palestine.
“We stand in solidarity with those who are enduring unimaginable suffering and call on all people of goodwill to join us in opposing this war,” Nyomi concluded.