WCC executive committee: “Gaza’s future cannot be determined by external powers”

In a statement entitled “Seeking Hope for a Just Peace in Palestine and Israel,” the World Council of Churches (WCC) executive committee welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of hostages and prisoners.

But the governing body also affirmed that “no peace can take root without justice, and that accountability is indispensable for healing and reconciliation.”

The statement calls for the ongoing investigations of the International Criminal Court into alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity by both Israel and Hamas to proceed without obstruction, political interference, or double standards.

The WCC executive committee called for, among other actions, ending “the impunity enjoyed by extremist settlers perpetrating violent attacks against Palestinians and their property in the West Bank.” 

The WCC executive committee is meeting in Hangzhou, China from 20-25 November.

WCC Statement Seeking Hope For a Just Peace in Palestine and Israel