AFSV Message on Violence in the Holy Land
May 13, 2021– We are deeply saddened by ongoing violence and the tragic loss of life in the Holy Land.
We call on all parties to de-escalate the situation and address the root causes of the continuous violence in the region, including the forced eviction of Palestinian families.
We hope and pray that political and religious leaders in the region and globally can come together to initiate genuine steps toward lasting peace.
Unequal, degrading and inhumane treatment of Palestinians and the use of disproportionate force and airstrikes by the Israeli Defense Forces that result in civilian deaths, including children, are wrong and cannot be condoned or justified.
Rocket attacks on Israeli residential neighborhoods by Hamas that results in the death of civilians also is wrong and cannot be condoned or justified.
Historically, the Holy Land witnessed long periods in which Jews, Christians and Muslims lived in interfaith peace. We believe that peace is possible today as well.
Respecting international law, ensuring equal and dignified treatment for Palestinians, rejecting all forms of violence to achieve political goals, and engaging in dialogue to develop empathy for the suffering of others are critical to the way forward.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Palestinian and Israeli families whose loved ones lost their lives.
We pray for peace and tranquility in this region, which is held Holy by each of the Abrahamic religions.
About Alliance for Shared Values
The Alliance for Shared Values (AFSV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves as a voice for cultural organizations affiliated with Hizmet, a civil society movement inspired by prominent preacher and peace advocate Fethullah Gülen. The Alliance strives to promote peace and social harmony by helping reduce misinformation and false stereotypes about any or all ethnic, cultural and religious communities. To learn more about the Alliance, please visit www.afsv.org.
Media contact
media@afsv.org
212-682-4278
A part of this message was adapted from our partner Dialogue Society, UK.