Caritas backs Holy Land opposition to Trump Gaza idea

By CathNews New Zealand

February 24th, 2025

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand has supported Church leaders in the Holy Land in their opposition to a proposed United States takeover of Gaza.

Caritas, the New Zealand Catholic bishops’ agency for justice, development and peace, described as “powerful” the statement by the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem.

The statement came after US President Donald Trump made remarks about a US takeover of Gaza. He also suggested a permanent displacement of Palestinians from the enclave.

The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem referred to the “grave threat of mass displacement, an injustice that strikes at the very heart of human dignity”.

“The people of Gaza, families who have lived for generations in the land of their ancestors, must not be forced into exile, stripped of whatever is left of their homes, their heritage, and their right to remain in the land that forms the essence of their identity.”

Caritas said that, as “a humanitarian organisation, we stand in solidarity with this message and share their appeal for justice and compassion”.

The statement by the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches made a heartfelt plea against the ongoing suffering and mass displacement in Gaza, describing what has happened there as a “profound moral and humanitarian tragedy”.

It also called on the global community to act urgently — demanding protection for civilians, humanitarian aid for those in desperate need and the upholding of human dignity.

The Trump concept for Gaza has been condemned globally, with Palestinians, Arab nations and rights experts saying it was tantamount to “ethnic cleansing”.

The efforts of King Abdullah II of Jordan, President El-Sisi of Egypt and others to oppose the plan, while at the same time providing provide humanitarian aid, were praised by the Church leaders.

The Patriarchs and Heads of Churches also called for the “release of all captives from both sides so that they can be safely reunited with their families”.

FULL STORY

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand

Timeline: Trump’s remarks on plan to take over Gaza, displace Palestinians | Reuters (Reuters)

Cardinal Parolin: Palestinians must not be deported from Gaza – OSV News OSV News