Gaza-Israel border

Statement about the recent violence on the Gaza-Israel border

The President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference, the Revd Loraine N Mellor and Jill Baker, have released the following statement following the recent violence on the Gaza-Israel border.

We are horrified by the violence that has taken place on the eastern border of Gaza in the past days, and deeply troubled by what appears to be a steady escalation in the situation. We appeal to all sides to step back urgently from actions that can only lead to more suffering, and to seek peaceful solutions.

The deaths of a reported 18 Palestinians as a result of shooting by the Israeli Defence Forces have shocked the world. While Israel has invoked its right to protect its border, reports suggest that live rounds were used against many unarmed protesters and hundreds of Palestinian demonstrators were hit and injured.

full text