CMEP statement on Gaza

churches call for an end to the violence

Churches for Middle East Peace issued the following statement on the situation in southern Israel and Gaza.  The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ are members of Churches for Middle East Peace.

Churches for Middle East Peace expresses deep sorrow and distress about the acts of deadly violence that have broken out in the past few days in the Gaza area and southern Israel. We urge all parties involved to end violent actions and to work with regional allies to achieve an immediate ceasefire.

CMEP is deeply saddened by the human cost and loss of life in Gaza and southern Israel. We extend our prayers to all those who mourn and to the many living in fear for their own safety and the safety of those whom they love.

This senseless, chronic cycle of violence must stop.  It is debilitating and dangerous and contributes to regional insecurity.  Churches for Middle East Peace calls on the international community, led by the newly re-elected U.S. administration, to undertake urgently a major new effort with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to bring a change in the poisonous status quo and create conditions for a just, durable and comprehensive peace.