A Statement from the Lutheran World Federation

~ posted to the Lutheran World Federation’s website on October 8, 2023

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is deeply concerned about the attacks of Hamas on towns and the civilian population in Israel, and the subsequent actions of the Israeli army, which have claimed lives on both sides, and led to injury and mayhem in an already volatile region.

“Both parties must exercise restraint, ensure the safety and security of civilians, and work urgently for peaceful solutions,” says LWF General Secretary Rev Dr Anne Burghardt.

“The international community must act immediately to help de-escalate the conflict and bring both parties to a negotiation that can lead to peace and not war in the Middle East,” adds the LWF General Secretary. “International humanitarian law must be respected by both sides in this conflict.”

LWF expresses its condolences to the families of victims and stands in solidarity with all who are affected by the conflict. LWF follows developments on the ground closely through its member church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land, and the LWF Jerusalem program.

LWF prays for a peaceful solution and calls on the LWF member churches across the world to join in prayer for the people of Israel and Palestine during this difficult time, when hatred, mistrust, and fear are once more being fueled in the region.