Calling for New Peace Process in Middle East (August 2006)

In a message to the United Nations, Pax Christi International is calling for a new peace process in the Middle East. The war between Israel and the Hezbollah persisted for more than one month. The UN Security Council adopted a resolution calling for an end to the hostilities. A ceasefire has been reached. The immoral logic of this war and the use of military force in this conflict have been highlighted. It is high time that serious action for peace is taken in the Middle East. In the message, issued 18 August 2006, Pax Christi International is calling for the implementation of all UN Resolutions and the beginning of a new peace process. Read the message in English ME.82.E.06, in French ME.82.F.06, in Spanish ME.82.S.06 and the press release in Portuguese ME.82.P.06.

Written intervention for Promotion and Protection of Human Rights (August 2006)

Brussels, 3 August 2006 - Pax Christi International has submitted a written intervention on the war in Lebanon, Israel and Gaza, for the Sub-Commission for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights (United Nations - 58th Session) which will take place in Geneva, 7 - 25 August 2006. Next to the call for an immediate cease fire, Pax Christi International calls on the Sub-Commission to denounce in the strongest possible wording: (1) all attacks from all sides against civilians and civilian infrastructure; and (2) the collective punishment meted out by Israel on the population in Gaza and Lebanon. The peace movement urges the Sub Commission to call for a stop to the use of cluster munitions and phosphor bombs, which are unacceptable, inaccurate and unreliable weapons in the current conflict. Pax Christi International calls the Sub Commission to once again highlight that humanitarian assistance should be unrestricted and secure passage should be provided, including rapid and unimpeded access for humanitarian workers. Read the statement in English ME.67.E.06, in Italian ME.67.I.06 and in Portuguese ME.67.P.06.

End Escalation of Violence in the Middle East (July 2006)

“End Escalation of Violence in the Middle East” is the title of the latest statement of Pax Christi International on the crisis in the region. The statement gives a short overview of the latest facts resulting in the escalation of the conflict. It refers also to international humanitarian law and calls for an end of the diplomatic vacuum. Israel should end its occupation of the Palestinian territories and no military support should be given to the fighting parties. Pax Christi International calls for an immediate cease-fire and the beginning of constructive negotiations with all parties involved. Read the statement in English ME.59.E.06,in Dutch ME.59.D.06 in Italian ME.59.I.06 and in German ME.59.G.06.