World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay has welcomed with profound relief the initial implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza.

“The WCC recognizes this cessation of hostilities as a necessary and hopeful first step, while also acknowledging its fragility and the uncertainty of the transitional period ahead,” said Pillay. “The scale of suffering and destruction has been catastrophic, leaving deep physical, psychological, and moral scars.”

He noted that the people of Gaza, in particular, continue to face immense hardship.

“The WCC emphasizes that the protection of civilians and adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law must guide all next steps,” he said. “Any governance arrangements must ensure the meaningful participation of Palestinians, uphold their right to remain on their land, and guarantee that the reconstruction and recovery process serves the principles of dignity, equity, and self-determination, rather than dependency, exclusion, or permanent occupation.”

Pillay called for the rebuilding of Gaza to go beyond the restoration of infrastructure.

“It must seek to rebuild trust, restore human security, and lay the foundations for sustainable peace and development,” he said. “The WCC prays that this ceasefire will not only bring an end to active hostilities but will open a credible pathway toward a just and lasting peace, grounded in international law, accountability, and the recognition that every person—Israeli and Palestinian alike—has the right to live in safety, dignity, and hope.”