What is the ELCAs position on peace in the Middle East?
The ELCA has called for vigorous U.S. leadership in support of the Road Map for Peace, including support for an end to terrorist attacks and all other forms of violent conflict, as well as for a viable, contiguous, independent Palestinian state and a secure Israel. The ELCA has urged U.S. leaders to seek an immediate ceasefire and stronger U.S. diplomatic pressure on all groups that wish to destabilize the region or otherwise promote violence. Other steps which have been named include: (1) facilitating the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian areas; (2) bringing about an end to the occupation; (3) establishing an international presence in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza; (4) advocating for an end to the separation barrier’s construction on Palestinian land and, ultimately, for a shared Jerusalem; and (5) supporting diplomacy that leads to recognition for the state of Israel and normalized relations with its Arab neighbors. A number of these calls for action were endorsed by
