Jerusalem, August 26, 2025 – The Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The patriarchates warned that Israel’s announced plans to take control of Gaza City, along with reported evacuation orders and a massive military mobilization, are creating a “tragic” situation for civilians, including the Christian community.
“In recent days, the media have repeatedly reported a massive military mobilization and preparations for an imminent offensive… At the time of this statement, evacuation orders were already in place for several neighborhoods in Gaza City,” the statement said. It added that reports of heavy bombardment continue to arrive, further worsening a situation that “was already dramatic before this operation.”
The statement highlighted the role of church compounds in providing refuge, noting that “the Greek Orthodox compound of Saint Porphyrius and the Holy Family compound have been a refuge for hundreds of civilians, among them elderly people, women, and children. In the Latin compound we have been hosting for many years, people with disabilities, who are under the care of the Sisters Missionaries of Charity.”
Emphasizing the dangers faced by those trying to flee, the patriarchates said, “Leaving Gaza City and trying to flee to the south would be nothing less than a death sentence. For this reason, the clergy and nuns have decided to remain and continue to care for all those who will be in the compounds.”
The statement condemned forced displacement and ongoing violence, urging an end to the war. “There can be no future based on captivity, displacement of Palestinians or revenge,” it said, echoing Pope Leo XIV: “All peoples, even the smallest and weakest, must be respected by the powerful in their identity and rights, especially the right to live in their own lands; and no one can force them into exile.”
The patriarchates called on the international community to intervene immediately, protect civilians, and secure the return of missing people and Israeli hostages. The statement concluded with a prayerful appeal: “Let us pray that all our hearts may be converted, so that we may walk in the paths of justice and life, for Gaza and for the whole Holy Land.”
Read more: https://milhilard.org/greek-orthodox-and-latin-patriarchates-of-jerusalem-issue-urgent-statement-urging-the-end-of-the-war-in-gaza/
By milhilard.org
