The Church of Ireland’s two archbishops have called for immediate international intervention in Gaza, condemning what they describe as a humanitarian catastrophe amid ongoing conflict.
In a joint statement released this week, Archbishop John McDowell and Archbishop Michael Jackson expressed “outrage” at the suffering of civilians in Gaza, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and the ill.
“The international community must grasp reality and respond as never before,” the archbishops said. “They can no longer stand by and watch the cruel starvation of innocent people … and the ongoing physical destruction of their lives and surroundings.”
The statement praised efforts by medical professionals, highlighting the reopening of Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, which is owned and operated by the Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem. The hospital sustained damage during a bombing on Palm Sunday but has resumed operations in a makeshift tent facility.
The archbishops commended the “resilient staff” for continuing to provide care “in what is by anyone’s reckoning a living wasteland” and pledged continued support for the hospital and the Diocese of Jerusalem, urging international assistance to aid their humanitarian work.
Reiterating earlier appeals, the church leaders called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid. They acknowledged widespread feelings of powerlessness but urged global leaders to act decisively and uphold international law.
Quoting the Gospel of Matthew, the statement concluded: “Always treat others as you would like them to treat you … In that spirit, now is the moment for decisive action.”
