WASHINGTON — “The further devastation of Gaza will have dire implications for any future civil society development in the region and will likely exacerbate existing tensions for another generation,” said Bishop A. Elias Zaidan, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace, addressing the breakdown of the ceasefire agreement in the Holy Land.

Bishop Zaidan stated:  

“I am deeply saddened that the ceasefire in Gaza, which had been implemented in January and carried with it the hope that this deadly conflict would end, has broken down, and that violence has resumed with horrible consequences. I am also deeply saddened that there are still Israeli hostages in the hands of Hamas; I call on the United States and all parties involved in the negotiations, to work for the immediate release of all these victims of the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks, and to restore the ceasefire to prevent further loss of life. The further devastation of Gaza will have dire implications for any future civil society development in the region and will likely exacerbate existing tensions for another generation. 

“As our Holy Father Pope Francis recently wrote from Gemelli Hospital, ‘While war only devastates communities and the environment, without offering solutions to conflicts, diplomacy and international organizations are in need of new vitality…’ I urge the United States, the European Union, and regional partners, as well as aid organizations, to assist actively in forging the local bonds of human solidarity that will lay the foundation for a lasting peace in the region.  

“I take this opportunity, even in the midst of this disappointing development, to reiterate our longstanding support for Israel and Palestine to live side by side as regional partners, working jointly for the development and prosperity of all peoples living in the lands of our Lord’s life, death, and glorious resurrection. During this Lenten season, as we strive for an ever-deeper conversion, I invite all people of faith to pray for peace in the Holy Land.”