LWF welcomes release of hostages and humanitarian pause between Israel and Hamas

For immediate release 22 November 2023

The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) welcomes the announcement of an agreement to secure the release of hostages abducted by Hamas on 7 October. LWF also welcomes the announcement of a four-day pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas.

This time must be used to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages and to alleviate the critical humanitarian needs of Palestinians in Gaza. More than 14,000 people in Gaza have been killed, including over 5,500 children. A continuous flow of humanitarian aid must be allowed into Gaza, to reach those in need.

The pause in fighting is welcome, but much more is needed. LWF calls on Israel and Hamas and on the International Community to take the necessary steps towards a full ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, securing the release of all hostages, and working to ensure the safety of civilians in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank. The indiscriminate attacks that kill and injure civilians must stop. 

Access to health care and medical attention must be provided. Thousands of cancer patients in Gaza are in urgent need of life-saving treatment. LWF calls for safe passage for people seeking medical attention. Efforts must be made to allow patients from Gaza access to these vital services without delay. The LWF, through the Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem, continues to stand ready to offer such treatment.

Violence is not a solution to the conflict. Peace will only be achieved through political negotiations. LWF reiterates its support for a two-state solution. We remain steadfast in the hope for a just peace in Israel and Palestine, so that all the people of Israel and Palestine can live in safety.

The Lutheran World Federation is a global communion of 150 churches in the Lutheran tradition, representing over 77.5 million Christians in 99 countries. The LWF acts on behalf of its member churches in areas of ecumenical and interfaith relations, theology, humanitarian assistance, human rights, communication and the various aspects of mission and development.