WCC statement on killing of six hostages

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay joined all those grieving the loss of six hostages whose bodies were recovered from the Gaza Strip on 31 August. 

The World Council of Churches joins all those grieving the loss of the six hostages whose bodies were recovered from the Gaza Strip on 31 August 2024. Reports suggest that all six hostages were shot multiple times from close range in the preceding hours or days, indicating they were executed by their captors. We abhor such brutality and call for all the remaining hostages to be released immediately, unconditionally and safely to their families and loved ones. 

We grieve for all the precious lives lost – Israeli and Palestinian – in this horrific ongoing war. We call for an immediate ceasefire to end the violence, bloodshed and destruction of communities, so that no more families must mourn the loss of their loved ones. We appeal to all parties to remember their humanity, and their accountability before the most fundamental principles of law and morality, and before God. 

Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General Secretary 
World Council of Churches