Middle East

Many believe the phrase "Middle East peace" is an oxymoron. The violent Israeli-Palestinian conflict dates back to 1948 when Israel was formed by taking Palestinian land. Since 1967, Israel has also occupied Gaza and the West Bank, where it has constructed illegal "settlements" for more than 300,000 Israelis. In retaliation, radical Palestinian groups have conducted a campaign of suicide bombings. In counter-retaliation, Israel has imposed collective punishments - military attacks, home demolitions, closures, checkpoints and - most recently - a separation barrier that is hundreds of miles long. The cycle of violence continues as hopes for freedom, respect, self-governance and security are dashed.

In November 2007 the U.S. government hosted a Mideast summit in Annapolis, Md. with the goal of reaching a peace agreement between Israelis and Palestinians by the end of 2008. While direct negotiations between Israeli and Palestinian leaders are a positive and much-needed step, much work remains to resolve the tough issues.

The U.S.-led preemptive war against Iraq has further undermined regional stability. While many Iraqis were relieved at the overthrow of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, the war's aftermath has been a nightmare. Iraqis are angry about the U.S. occupation of their country and increased security concerns spawned by a large anti-American insurgency movement.

MCC's Middle East advocacy grows out of 60 years of work in the region. Among MCC's advocacy concerns are: a just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which allows all to live in peace and security; refugee and displaced people's needs; religious freedoms; respect for human rights; regional disarmament; supporting a UN-led effort to rebuild postwar Iraq; and improved U.S. diplomatic and trade relations with Iran.

As he wept over Jerusalem, Jesus said, "If you, even you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace!" (Luke 19:42). Today, there is still cause for weeping as one scans the violence across the Middle East. But the Christian message is also one of hope. In Christ, God can and has shattered the dividing wall of hostilities (Ephesians 2:14) - even long-standing ones like those in the Middle East.