The Episcopal Peace Fellowship (EPF) strongly denounces President Donald Trump’s recent declaration that the United States should assume control of the Gaza Strip through the displacement of Palestinians to neighboring countries. We echo the assessment of Francesca Albanese, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territory, who deemed the proposal “unlawful, immoral and completely irresponsible.”
Unlawful:
This proposal flagrantly violates international law. It disregards the established legal frameworks governing the rights of peoples to self-determination and territorial integrity. The forced displacement of Palestinians not only contravenes the mandates of international humanitarian law but also undermines the legitimacy of decades-long diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a just and lasting peace in the region.
Immoral:
At its core, this plan embodies a profound moral failing. The deliberate displacement of communities, the uprooting of families, and the potential for widespread human suffering starkly contradict the values of compassion, dignity, and justice that are central to our faith. It transforms lives into mere statistics in a strategy of geopolitical expediency, dismissing the inherent worth of every human being. Moreover, the very notion of exploiting this upheaval as an opportunity for lucrative real estate development on the Mediterranean is a chilling and depraved proposal that reduces human lives to mere commodities in a profit-driven venture.
Completely Irresponsible:
The proposed action threatens to exacerbate an already volatile situation, risking the stability of not only the region but the broader international community. Forced relocations and state-sanctioned displacement set a dangerous precedent, fueling cycles of mistrust and retribution. Such a course is not only counterproductive to any realistic prospects for peace, but it also jeopardizes the possibility of reconciliation and healing, leaving deep, lasting scars on all involved.
A Call to All People of Faith:
We call upon communities of faith, human rights advocates, and all citizens who cherish peace and justice to join us in condemning this proposal. It is imperative that we hold our elected representatives accountable and demand that our governments work diligently to uphold international law, protect the rights of the Palestinian people, and pursue diplomatic solutions that honor the dignity of every person.
Together, let us affirm our commitment to a future where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and mutual respect rather than through violence and displacement.
In solidarity with the Palestinian people and all who suffer from unjust policies, we stand united for a world where peace, justice, and human dignity prevail. For more about EPF, go to episcopalpeacefellowship.net.
