A Call for Immediate Stop Violence in the Middle East
by Rev. Dr. Yoshinori Shinohara, Secretary General of Religions for Peace Asia
by Rev. Dr. Yoshinori Shinohara, Secretary General of Religions for Peace Asia
I express my deepest concern over both the attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, and the subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran. I call for an immediate end to this violence.
Tragically, lives have already been lost. As is always the case in armed conflict, it is innocent civilians who pay the ultimate price. We must end the fighting at once and prioritize the protection and rescue of human lives above all else.
The international community must exert its full influence to bring all parties back to the negotiating table for a peaceful resolution, recognizing that dialogue is the only path for humanity.
Instead of the rule of might, we should ensure full compliance with international law—the sublime wisdom humanity has built over decades as the very foundation to resolve conflicts peacefully. Now, more than ever, the United Nations must fulfill its duty to resolve this crisis in accordance with international law. If the Security Council is unable to act, the General Assembly must unite to apply global pressure for peace.
As ACRP (Religions for Peace Asia)—a coalition of religious leaders across the Asia-Pacific—I believe we, as people of faith, have a sacred responsibility to urge political leaders, communities, and organizations in our respective countries to take action for an immediate end to this war.
Indeed, every religion teaches not only the dignity of the individual but also love for others—neighborly love, brotherly love, love for family, and a universal love for all humanity.
Rooted in this boundless compassion, ACRP mobilizes our utmost prayers and appeals to all nations and parties involved to choose the path of genuine dialogue and peaceful settlement.
