Church bells rung across Iceland and several other countries in a symbolic act of support for the people of Gaza. The coordinated tolling lasted between seven and fifteen minutes and aimed to encourage peace and global solidarity.

Among the participating churches were Reykjavík Cathedral, Kópavogur Church, Glerár Church in Akureyri, and Lágafell Church in Mosfellsbær. The initiative, led by the Church of Norway, extended beyond Iceland, with national churches in Sweden and Finland also taking part. Sister churches in Jerusalem joined in as well.

As RÚV reports, Guðrún Karls Helgudóttir, Bishop of Iceland, described the action as a rare but powerful moment of unity among churches worldwide.

“This is not common, but it is especially so when it comes to peace, to pray for peace. That’s when churches really unite. After all, the church can’t do nothing,” she said. “And it’s natural that when many minds unite on something, nothing but good can happen,” Guðrún added.

The bell ringing served not only as a call to prayer but also to raise awareness about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The event was seen as a peaceful gesture, calling for hope, healing, and international cooperation.