Pax Christi International issued the following statement on October 7, 2024:

What we are witnessing in the Holy Land, with ramifications across the Middle East, has its roots in over a century of conflict.

Each escalation serves as clear evidence that war only breeds further hatred, division, and tension, providing no real solutions.

The rising death toll, attacks on hospitals and schools, rampant hate speech and discrimination are undeniable proof that suffering only begets more suffering.

As Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, stated: "We can only call once again on those in authority to a commitment to justice and respect for every person's right to freedom, dignity, and peace."

Enough of decision-makers turning a blind eye! Enough of the complicity!

Decades of blatant violations of International and Humanitarian Law, as well as UN resolutions, escalated on October 7th, with a sharp rise in war crimes and persistent disregard for human rights. These violations, primarily targeting the Palestinian people, have become routine and are now spreading across the Middle East.

The international community continues to apply temporary fixes, hoping to protect economic interests, particularly those tied to Israel, while delaying meaningful dialogue and decisive legal action. To support peace efforts, we must ban the sale and delivery of arms to both Israel and armed groups, cease military cooperation that fuels the conflict, ensure an immediate, continuous ceasefire, and restore humanitarian aid to those in desperate need.

Enough of the occupation!

We must safeguard the people of Palestine, who continue to endure systemic oppression through ongoing human rights violations linked to the occupation, including collective punishment, property confiscation, excessive use of force, unlawful killings, restrictions on freedom of movement, and relentless settlement expansion. These violations deprive them of essential services such as healthcare, disrupt access to water and electricity, and hinder the delivery of humanitarian aid, leading to famine and deepening inequality while undermining their fundamental human rights.

Pax Christi International calls on all parties to return to negotiations and establish a peace agreement that recognizes and protects the dignity and rights of both Palestinians and Israelis, treating them as equals. Any revived peace process must be grounded in a firm commitment to international law and UN resolutions, particularly those affirming the rights of the Palestinian people and promoting stability across the region.

Pax Christi International prays for a just peace

Humanity has had enough of this needless suffering! We owe it not only to future generations, but to all those in the Holy Land and the wider Middle East, whose lives are constantly at risk, living in fear, displaced, and forced to flee their homes amidst ongoing conflict.

Today, we pray for a just peace, in which we firmly believe. We also pray for decision-makers, faith leaders, and citizens to take a bold stand in favor of peace.