PCUSA and American Academy of Religion Condemn Gaza War as Genocide, Call for Arms Embargo and Boycott

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) voted Tuesday to recognize Israel’s war in Gaza as a genocide, marking a significant shift in the denomination’s stance on the conflict. The decision, passed 454-15 at the denomination’s General Assembly in Milwaukee, calls for Presbyterians to lobby Congress for an arms embargo against Israel and to boycott Israeli products linked to the war. This follows a unanimous vote earlier in the week to divest from Palantir Technologies and General Electric Aerospace, citing their roles in technologies used in the conflict.

The American Academy of Religion also adopted a resolution condemning the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza, labeling the war a “scholasticide” — an intentional effort to destroy the Palestinian education system. The resolution, approved by 98% of members at the organization’s Annual Business Meeting in Atlanta, aligns with broader criticism of Israel’s actions, which the country has consistently denied.

The resolutions from these religious bodies add to a growing international condemnation of the war in Gaza. Since the conflict began after Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, over 73,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Nearly a third of the casualties are children, and more than 2 million Gazans are displaced, facing severe humanitarian crises including starvation, dehydration, and inadequate shelter.

In the U.S., the House of Representatives debated an amendment to cut funding for Israel, led by Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie and supported by many Democrats. This reflects increasing political pressure on the U.S. government to address the humanitarian impact of the war.

The PCUSA’s decision to divest from Palantir Technologies and General Electric Aerospace highlights the denomination’s concern over corporate involvement in conflict. Palantir, a data analysis firm, has provided AI technologies to the Israel Defense Forces, according to a UN report. Al Jazeera reported that Palantir’s software has been used to develop “kill lists” for the Israeli military. General Electric, meanwhile, supplies engines and other equipment to Israel, raising ethical concerns about its role in the conflict.

These actions by religious organizations underscore a broader call for accountability and justice in the face of ongoing violence and suffering. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the American Academy of Religion are joining global efforts to challenge the narrative of the war and advocate for the protection of vulnerable populations.

Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humility in service to others. The actions of these religious bodies reflect a commitment to these values, as they seek to address the human cost of the conflict and advocate for the dignity of all people.

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