Indian Catholic women seek urgent halt to Middle East violence

Faith-based resolution calls for civilian protection, humanitarian access and renewed diplomacy, while pledging prayer, fasting and advocacy for peace.

NEW DELHI (Indian Catholic News) — Indian Catholic women are urging an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across all fronts in the Middle East, saying Christian values call for love amid enmity and respect for every human life.

The appeal came in a resolution adopted March 14 in New Delhi by Indian Catholic women marking International Women’s Day, even as escalating violence across the Middle East continues to inflict heavy civilian casualties and widespread destruction.

The document, issued by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India’s Council for Women and sent to Indian Catholic News, states that “the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly in U.S. Israel, against Iran, and surrounding regions, has resulted in unprecedented loss of innocent lives, widespread displacement, and immense human suffering, with thousands of civilians—women, children, and families—bearing the brunt of violence.”

Framing their position in theological terms, the women cited the teachings of Jesus Christ, noting: “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9) and affirming that Christians are “called for love even amidst enmity.” They added that they “stand in solidarity with all victims of war, affirming the sanctity of every human life created in God’s image.”

Call for ceasefire and humanitarian action

The resolution emphasises that “the principles of non-violence, compassion, and justice enshrined in our Christian heritage compel us to raise our voices against escalation,” including “destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship, and the deepening humanitarian crisis affecting millions.”

It also situates India’s role within a broader diplomatic tradition, stating that the country “has historically championed resolutions for ceasefires and humanitarian aid through forums like the United Nations,” while upholding “the right to life, dignity, and protection for all peoples.”

Warning that “prolonged conflict perpetuates cycles of hatred, impedes reconstruction, and threatens global stability,” the resolution calls for urgent international intervention.

The group issued five key demands, beginning with “an immediate and unconditional ceasefire across all fronts in the Middle East to halt the killing and enable safe humanitarian access.” They also called for “the protection of civilians, including women and children, in full compliance with international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions,” and “unimpeded delivery of food, medical aid, water, and shelter to affected populations.”

Further demands include the “resumption of diplomatic negotiations under UN auspices, with India playing a leading role in advocating for a just and lasting peace,” and “an end to the targeting of religious sites, schools, and healthcare facilities.”

The resolution concludes with a direct appeal: “We call upon the Government of India, the United Nations Security Council, world leaders, and all faith communities to act swiftly on these demands.”

Pledging continued engagement, the women added: “As women of prayer and action, we commit to fasting, vigils, and advocacy until peace prevails.”

Read the full text of the resolution.