revealed 20 January 2025
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“After greater than a yr of grief, loss and destruction, we welcome the information of a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza with cautious pleasure.
“We salute those that have been working publicly and behind the scenes to get so far, and we pray that this ushers in not solely a long-lasting ceasefire and lasting peace, however a peace that brings justice to all concerned.
“Recognizing that the journey forward is a protracted one, which will depend on the settlement, belief and dedication of all events, we hope that the discharge of hostages and prisoners will proceed as shortly as doable.
“The supply of humanitarian reduction to the folks of Gaza should even be prioritized as a matter of utmost urgency.
“We acknowledge that this ceasefire alone will not be sufficient to ascertain a simply and lasting peace.
“There have to be a elementary change within the broader context of Israel, Palestine, together with an finish to the Israeli occupation of the West Financial institution and Palestinian self-determination.
“To this finish, we once more urge the UK authorities to do all it might probably to assist this course of, together with recognizing the State of Israel in addition to the State of Palestine.
“Within the weeks and months forward, please proceed to hope for many who attempt to make sure that this promise of peace turns into a actuality, and for everybody dwelling with the implications of such a horrific and devastating battle.”
Rt Rev Dr Shaw Patterson.
Moderator of the Basic Meeting of the Church of Scotland.
