17 January 2025
The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, marking a significant step toward ending over a year of conflict.
“Peace is on the horizon after fifteen months of war. The first priority must be to alleviate the immense suffering this conflict has caused,” said LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr Anne Burghardt.
LWF calls on all parties to prioritise the safe and immediate access for humanitarian workers to scale up assistance. Additionally, LWF calls for medical evacuations to the Augusta Victoria Hospital to be facilitated as a priority.
According to reports the ceasefire will be implemented in three stages. Initially, both sides will implement a full ceasefire and engage in an exchange of hostages and prisoners. The second stage aims to conclude the war, with Israeli troops withdrawing fully from Gaza and the full release of hostages and additional prisoners. Finally, the agreement envisions the reconstruction of Gaza, addressing the widespread destruction and humanitarian needs.
