As Christians, and embracing the Seekers commitment to “work for the end of all war, both public and private,” we deeply grieve the enormous loss of lives in Palestine, Lebanon, and Israel which has escalated since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. We know the roots of this conflict are deep and complex, and cannot be divorced from the long history of antisemitism and attacks against Jews, from the displacement and oppression of Palestinians, or from thousands of years of history that tie both peoples to this land.
However, we cannot stand by in silence while our government provides military aid that is victimizing civilians in Palestine and Lebanon on a massive scale. To that end, we call upon the government of the United States to suspend financial and tactical support for the Israeli military until Israel respects international law regarding the protection of civilians.
We also call for the US government to use all peaceful means at its disposal to ensure:
(1) a permanent ceasefire by all parties involved,
(2) the immediate, unhindered delivery of medical and humanitarian aid to Gaza,
(3) the protection of Palestinian, Lebanese, and Israeli civilians, ensuring their safety, security, and their right to live without fear of violence, and
(4) the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza, as well as of other persons detained in Israel and the West Bank without legal due process.
We pray for the birth of permanent peace and enduring justice in Palestine, Lebanon, and Israel, and commit to doing whatever we can to bring these into effect.
