Gaza: Peace is the only path forward

LWF condemns the killing of civilians in Gaza airstrikes and the blocking of humanitarian aid

19 Mar 2025

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Statement expresses dismay and condemnation following breakdown of ceasefire and resumption of deadly airstrikes

(LWI) - The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) has expressed dismay and condemnation over the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza and the resumption of Israeli airstrikes which have reportedly killed hundreds of people, including 130 children.

In a statement released on 19 March, the LWF stresses that civilians must be protected in times of war. It also condemns the blocking of humanitarian aid in what it describes as “an already fragile situation of humanitarian crisis.” The statement calls on governments across the world to support political negotiations that can bring an end to the war in Gaza, including the release of all hostages and the full protection of Palestinian civilians.

The children of Palestine and Israel deserve to grow up in peace, not in fear and hatred.

Maria Immonen, director of LWF World Service

Maria Immonen, director of LWF World Service, said: “The suffering in Gaza and Israel must end. The children of Palestine and Israel deserve to grow up in peace, not in fear and hatred. As people of faith, we refuse to accept that violence is inevitable. Peace is not just possible: it is the only path forward.”

Read the full statement

Statement 19 March 2025

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) expresses dismay and profound sorrow over the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza and the resumption of Israeli airstrikes.

Reports indicate that more than 400 people have been killed, including 130 children. Civilians must be protected in war. The LWF unequivocally condemns all attacks on both civilians and civilian infrastructure.

The LWF condemns the blocking of humanitarian aid, in an already fragile situation of humanitarian crisis. LWF calls on all parties to ensure unhindered access for aid and for humanitarian workers providing life-saving services. The LWF also calls on authorities to ensure medical evacuations, including to the Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem are facilitated as a priority.

The people of Palestine and Israel need a continued ceasefire and a full cessation of war, as outlined in the initial agreement. The release of all hostages and the full protection of Palestinian civilians must be guaranteed. The LWF calls on governments across the world to lend their support to a political negotiation that will help achieve these goals.

LWB/P. Hitchen