The ACT Palestine Forum (APF) is deeply alarmed by US- and Israeli military forces attacks on the Islamic Republic of Iran and counterattacks by Iranian military forces. We mourn the loss of civilian life resulting from these attacks, which have affected populations across several countries and further destabilization in an already fragile region. 

At a time when the Middle East is experiencing unprecedented levels of violence, displacement, and humanitarian catastrophe, any additional military escalation risks igniting a broader regional confrontation. These developments are already inflicting devastating consequences on civilian populations and are actively undermining prospects for justice, accountability, and a just and sustainable peace.  

The Palestinian people, who continue to endure prolonged occupation and systemic violations of their rights, are once again bearing the direct consequences of regional escalation. The renewed blockade of Gaza has further restricted the entry of humanitarian assistance and stalled the evacuation of critical medical cases. Across the West Bank, additional checkpoints have been imposed on many now fully closed roads, severely restricting movement, disrupting livelihoods, and fragmenting communities. Military raids and arrests have increased, compounding fear and insecurity among civilians. These measures collectively deepen humanitarian suffering and exacerbate an already critical situation. 

APF firmly believes that military logic and retaliatory escalation will not deliver security. Instead, they deepen instability, normalize cross-border attacks, and undermine the foundations of international law. True security cannot be built on military supremacy or collective punishment; it must be grounded in justice, accountability, and the full realization of human rights.  We therefore call upon all parties and regional actors to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from actions that could widen the confrontation, and urgently prioritize political and diplomatic pathways over military responses. 

We stress the imperative of full compliance with International Humanitarian Law, including the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and adherence to the principles of distinction, proportionality, and necessity. We further call for strict respect for International Human Rights Law, which remains applicable at all times and must be upheld without selectivity or double standards. The international community carries legal and moral responsibility not only to prevent further escalation, but also to address the root causes of recurring instability in the region, including entrenched impunity, the absence of accountability, and the ongoing denial of fundamental rights. 

As a faith-based forum and a part of ACT Alliance, our call is grounded not only in political analysis but in theological conviction. We affirm that peace is not merely a strategic option; it is a moral and spiritual imperative rooted in our faith in a God of justice and compassion. Human dignity is sacred, reflecting the image of God. Any assault on civilian life or systematic violation of human rights constitutes a direct affront to that sacred dignity. Our appeal for restraint and de-escalation arises from our Christian commitment to justice, reconciliation, and peacemaking, and from our rejection of a regional order sustained by perpetual violence. 

APF calls upon Member States, the international community, and churches worldwide to urgently pursue de-escalation through diplomatic means, and refrain from actions that could widen the conflict.  

APF reiterates that a just and comprehensive peace remains the only viable path toward lasting stability in the region. Without justice, accountability, and respect for international law, cycles of violence will continue to endanger the lives and dignity of all people in the Middle East.