With peace process underway in Gaza, US bishops urge prioritizing humanitarian assistance
U.S. bishops have expressed support for the agreement between Israel and Hamas as the first phase of President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan begins this week.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has expressed support for the agreement between Israel and Hamas as the first phase of President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan begins this week.
The bishops' Oct. 10 statement highlights the their commitment to end the war and ease suffering in the region.
“I am immensely grateful to the United States and multilateral partners for their tireless work to begin the process that will, God willing, culminate in the ending of the devastating war in Gaza,” Bishop A. Elias Zaidan, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, wrote in the statement..
The initial phase includes the release of the remaining Israeli hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to a mutually agreed-upon line, the bishop noted. He also urged that the next steps prioritize relief for suffering civilians.
“As the peace process gets underway," he stated, "I urge all international partners to urgently prioritize humanitarian assistance for the Gazan people, as well as the rebuilding of the Strip; this will lay the foundations not just for peace, but for the Gazan people’s prosperity."
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Bishop Zaidan invoked a recent message from Pope Leo XIV to underscore the Church’s call for spiritual solidarity and dialogue: “Marking the anniversary of the October 7 attacks against Israel, Pope Leo XIV reminded us of the essential link between prayer and dialogue: ‘The Church has asked everyone to pray for peace, especially during this month. We will also seek, in ways available to the Church, to promote dialogue at all times.’”
He concluded with a vision for long-term reconciliation.
“It is precisely through the process of grace-filled dialogue and a culture of encounter that our common humanity, regardless of religious affiliation, emerges, until we see only brothers and sisters working together for peace, mutual respect, and solidarity," he said. "Let us continue beseeching almighty God for peace and cooperation for the good of all people in the entire Middle East.”
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