The Middle East Council of Churches issued an urgent appeal from Beirut on April 3, 2026, expressing deep concern over the escalating situation in South Lebanon and calling for immediate action to protect civilians and preserve peace.
Framing the appeal within the spiritual context of Holy Week, the Council stated: “In these holy days… we ask the Lord God to pour His peace upon this wounded land and its suffering peoples, and to dispel the darkness of violence with the light of His Divine Resurrection.”
The Council drew particular attention to South Lebanon, describing it as a land blessed by Christ and long afflicted by conflict. It noted that the people of the region have endured repeated suffering from war, violence, and displacement, yet have remained steadfast in their attachment to their land and dignity.
“Today, as the people of the South face renewed serious threats… we express our full solidarity with them and salute their steadfastness,” the statement read.
The MECC strongly condemned all forms of violence targeting innocent civilians, emphasizing that “human dignity and safety must remain central to all considerations.”
It called on the international community and relevant authorities to take concrete steps, including:
- Prioritizing the protection of human life above all else
- Rejecting forced displacement and affirming the right of people to remain in their homes
- Urging the Lebanese state to ensure safety and stability for its citizens
- Securing effective international protection in accordance with humanitarian law
- Upholding human dignity, especially in times of conflict
The statement stressed that protecting civilians is not optional but a moral obligation, declaring: “Preventing their displacement is not merely a demand, but a sacred existential right.”
Concluding the appeal, the Council offered prayers for peace, strength, and consolation for all those suffering. It expressed hope that, through the trials of the present moment, a new beginning may emerge:
“We lift our hope that the suffering of our peoples will transform into a new dawn of life… bringing peace, justice, and dignity to all the children of this region.”
The appeal underscores the growing urgency of the situation in South Lebanon and calls for a unified response rooted in humanity, justice, and faith.
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Source: mecc.org
