The ceasefire agreement in Gaza gives us hope, and we pray it will provide a path to lasting peace and an end to the suffering. We will continue to pray in thanksgiving for the release of the Israeli hostages, the return of the bodies of the deceased hostages, the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and the safe return of displaced Gazans, as well as the delivery of life-giving aid to the Gazan people.
There remains an enormous amount of work to be done to ease the suffering of people in Gaza, who have seen tens of thousands of children and family members killed while facing severe hunger amid the lack of aid. Their homes, businesses, hospitals and critical infrastructure have been destroyed. The area must be rebuilt and offer opportunities for Gazans to return and thrive and live in peace.
While we commend the U.S. administration for its role in brokering the ceasefire, it is important to name that the United States has long been complicit in providing arms to Israel.
To secure a lasting peace, there must be a commitment to work for justice. Establishment of an interfaith dialogue, to change mindsets and narratives, is a critical component of the plan. Security for the Israeli people is tied to justice and the right to freedom for the Palestinian people. World leaders are accountable for ensuring the parties live up to their commitments.