Statement from the ACTAlliance Governing Board on the dire situation in Gaza

[The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ are members of ACTAlliance, a network of more than 140 faith-based member organizations working in long-term development, advocacy and humanitarian assistance.]

We, the ACT Governing Board, representing ACT members from all regions of the world, gathered at the Board meeting in Montreux, Switzerland May 13-15, 2024, address the pressing issues of the ongoing crisis in Gaza and the challenges faced by the Palestinian people in Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank, including the Christian communities there. We commend the efforts of the ACT Alliance Secretariat and ACT members in swiftly advocating for a cessation of hostilities in Gaza and upholding International Humanitarian Law. And we are mindful that many ACT members have been paying special attention and redoubling their efforts in advocacy and aid to the Palestinians.

However, the situation in Gaza is dire, necessitating stronger advocacy efforts for lasting peace and justice in the region. Additionally, we express deep concern over the decline of the Christian presence in Gaza, which undermines cultural heritage and diversity, particularly given the vital role Christian groups play in providing key services in the region.  
We have heard the plea of the ACT Palestine Forum for stronger action from the Alliance.

We recognize the pain and suffering which is impacting all people living in the land. We appreciate the initiative by the ACT Secretariat, in conjunction with the World Council of Churches, in planning a solidarity visit to the Holy Land to show support in these difficult times.

We call upon the ACT Alliance members to:

• intensify advocacy,
• strengthen partnerships with local Palestinian communities,
• mobilize solidarity campaigns to address these critical issues, and
• take actions in cooperation with the wider ecumenical movement to promote swift and sustained humanitarian action, peace and justice and preserve the diverse religious presence in the region.

Our solidarity and collective action are paramount for promoting justice, peace, and human rights in the Holy Land and beyond.