Christians urge inclusion of Lebanon in ceasefire talks

Christians around the world have expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence in Lebanon, urging an immediate inclusion of the country in the recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Despite the agreement, Israel has continued its military operations in Lebanon, raising alarm among Christian organizations and humanitarian groups.

The ceasefire, announced earlier this week, remains shrouded in ambiguity, with its exact terms disputed. However, Israel’s military actions have not ceased, culminating in a severe aerial bombardment of Beirut on Wednesday. The attack, reportedly targeting the militant group Hezbollah, has left at least 182 people dead and 890 injured, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. President Joseph Aoun called the strike a “massacre,” highlighting the devastating impact on civilian life.

The attack has drawn sharp criticism from Iran, which views it as a violation of the ceasefire. Both the US and Israel, however, maintain that Lebanon was not part of the agreement. This disagreement has left the country vulnerable to continued violence, with Christian leaders emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive ceasefire that includes Lebanon.

Tearfund, Christian Aid, the World Council of Churches (WCC), and the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) have all condemned the ongoing strikes on Lebanon. Jaime Abraham, Tearfund’s Country Director for Lebanon and Syria, described the attacks as sending prices soaring and forcing people into impossible choices. He expressed grief over the loss of homes, loved ones, and livelihoods, noting the widespread fear and loss of hope among the population.

“Today is a national day of mourning for people in Lebanon,” Abraham said. “The entire country is under attack, and leaders must work towards a sustainable peace.” His words reflect the deep sorrow and desperation felt by many in the region, as the violence continues to escalate.

William Bell, Christian Aid’s head of Middle East advocacy, echoed these sentiments, stressing that any ceasefire must include Lebanon. He warned against allowing Israel to continue bombing and displacing innocent civilians, emphasizing that a true ceasefire must mean an end to all military activity.

In a joint statement, the WCC and the MECC condemned the Israeli attack on Beirut as a “catastrophic security escalation.” Their condemnation underscores the moral and humanitarian imperative to stop the violence and seek lasting peace. The situation in Lebanon serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability, justice, and compassion in the pursuit of peace, reflecting the biblical call to seek peace and pursue it (Psalm 122:6).

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