Churches for Middle East Peace, Including United Church of Christ, Calls for Global Action to Address Gaza Crisis

Churches for Middle East Peace, of which the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) are members, has joined the United Nations in urging the global community not to ignore the suffering of Gazans amid the ongoing conflict. The group emphasized that people in Gaza are “dying at the world’s watch,” with over 400,000 displaced as of October 13 due to Israel’s bombing campaign and military actions. The Israeli war cabinet has stated its goal is to “wipe Hamas off the earth,” and Prime Minister Netanyahu has warned the conflict will “reverberate for generations.”

CMEP condemned the October 7 attacks by Hamas and all violence against civilians, supporting the United Nations’ call for international intervention. The group stressed the need to distinguish the actions of Hamas from the civilian population in Gaza, who face displacement, starvation, and death. CMEP urged Congress and the Biden Administration to act, pressing Israel to comply with the Geneva Conventions and allowing humanitarian aid to reach civilians. The organization called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and the protection of civilian life, advocating for an immediate ceasefire.

On October 13, the Israeli government ordered the relocation of 1.1 million Gazans from the north to the south within 24 hours. CMEP strongly opposed this decision, highlighting the logistical and safety impossibility of such a move. The southern region also remains under threat of bombing, and the United Nations warned that the relocation would lead to “devastating humanitarian consequences.” The group emphasized the urgency of addressing the crisis to prevent further loss of life.

The situation in Gaza has drawn widespread attention, with calls for global leaders to address the war between Hamas and Israel. CMEP urged people of faith and goodwill to respond to the devastation, warning that thousands, if not tens of thousands, may die if the siege and bombing continue. The group highlighted the collective punishment faced by over 2.2 million citizens of Gaza, urging immediate action to protect civilian lives and ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need.

The conflict has sparked international concern, with religious and humanitarian groups emphasizing the moral imperative to act. CMEP’s statement aligns with broader calls for accountability, justice, and mercy, reflecting the values of the Restoration movement. The group’s focus on humanitarian aid and the protection of civilian life underscores the importance of compassion and ethical responsibility in times of war. As the crisis continues, the call for global intervention remains urgent.

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