Statement by the General Secretariat of the Middle East Council of Churches
Following the Dangerous Security Incidents in Lebanon
As a result of the escalation of new security events in Lebanon—which have turned into comprehensive aggression against various Lebanese regions, resulting in the martyrdom of thousands of citizens and the displacement of hundreds of thousands from southern Lebanon and the Bekaa to other regions due to concerns for their lives—the Middle East Council of Churches held an emergency meeting of the Extended General Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by the Secretary-General, Dr. Michel Abs, and attended by the Associate Secretaries-general and the directors of departments and sections. The aim was to study the emergency situation in Lebanon and the Levant, monitor urgent humanitarian needs, and take measures that ensure the continuation of work in the event of an escalation of security and severity of living conditions.
The participants discussed urgent humanitarian issues and ways to support families at various levels, praising the national human solidarity witnessed by Lebanese society since the beginning of the attacks.
The Middle East Council of Churches strongly condemns the killing of innocent people, children, women, the elderly, and other civilians, and deplores the attacks carried out by aggressor forces on densely populated areas that have led to the death of some 500 people in one day and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of citizens from their areas. These crimes indicate the forces of aggression's disregard for the principles of international law, the rules of the Geneva Conventions, and all conventions governing armed conflicts.
The Middle East Council of Churches also calls on the international community to intervene as soon as possible and issue a clear position condemning the war crimes against civilians by launching raids, and the systematic destruction of property and the interruption of food and health supplies. It also urges the provision of international protection for civilians so that organizations and associations can supply them with the necessary materials for a decent life.
During the meeting, the participants decided to establish an emergency cell to monitor needs, follow up on logistical field matters, and track the situation of families displaced from their areas, standing by them both humanely and in terms of livelihood. This is in addition to keeping abreast of all the tragedies that affect citizens and providing psychological support to children as a result of the massacres and violations against humanity they have witnessed. Additionally, media support for humanitarian issues will be provided to highlight the suffering and needs of families.
In conclusion, everyone prayed for peace, truth, and justice, and for the silencing of the voices of war that sow death and destruction, asking God to grant His peace to all peoples.
Beirut, 24.09.2024