The ongoing war in Gaza, particularly following the horrific massacre on October 7, 2023, has deeply shaken the world. The bloodshed and suffering in the region are a stark reminder of the complexities and emotional toll of the Israel-Hamas conflict. On that day, Israel faced an unprecedented attack from Hamas, leaving over a thousand of its citizens dead, alongside thousands of others wounded. For Israel, this was not merely an act of violence; it was an assault on their right to live in peace in their homeland.
As a Christian, I acknowledge the significance of Israel in God’s plan. Throughout Scripture, Israel is referred to as God’s chosen people. From the patriarch Abraham to the prophets, the Bible has underscored Israel’s special place in God’s purposes for the world. While Israel’s role in God’s plan does not mean that every action taken by the state of Israel is beyond reproach, it is essential to recognize the unique relationship that the Jewish people have with God and the land of Israel. The atrocities committed by Hamas cannot be justified under any circumstances, and Israel’s right to defend itself, its people, and its sovereignty is fundamental.
Hamas, an Iran-backed terror group, has long sought to destabilize the region and threaten Israel’s existence. This is not just a localised struggle; it is a broader geopolitical battle where Iran, through its proxies, aims to exert control and influence over the Middle East. In its actions, Hamas has not only undermined peace efforts but also exploited innocent Palestinian civilians as human shields. The use of civilians as tools of war is a tragic aspect of this ongoing conflict, and it is regrettable that so many innocent lives are lost in the crossfire.
Israel’s goals are clear: to defend its citizens, to free hostages, and to alter the balance of power in the Middle East. The tragic loss of Palestinian lives in Gaza is undeniable, and the human cost of this war is something that should never be overlooked. Each life lost, whether Israeli or Palestinian, is a tragedy. There is no joy in this conflict. What the world longs for, and what both Israelis and Palestinians deserve, is peace.
However, peace will not come through violence. Israel’s efforts to safeguard its people, while necessary, should be coupled with a commitment to long-term solutions that address the root causes of the conflict. The loss of innocent lives in Gaza should be a wake-up call to the world. War only begets more war, and as Christians, we are called to pray for peace. We are called to pray for wisdom for leaders and for the restoration of justice. The cycle of violence must be broken.
In these turbulent times, we must remember that, as Christians, we are called to love our neighbours—no matter their ethnicity or religion. The ongoing violence should stir in us a deep desire for reconciliation, a desire to see justice done while protecting the innocent and promoting peace. While Israel has the right to defend itself, the international community must work together to create a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and security.
It is my prayer that the international community, including the Church, will not only pray for Israel but also for the innocent Palestinian civilians caught in the middle of this conflict. The road to peace is long and fraught with challenges, but it begins with the recognition of the inherent dignity of every human life and the commitment to seeing God’s justice reign. Violence must stop, and peace must take its place.
