FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washington, D.C. - December 12th, 2024

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CMEP Statement on the Latest Developments in Syria

12th Dec. 2024 Washington D.C.- Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) acknowledges the immense pain and suffering endured by the Syrian people under decades of rule by the Assad regimes, and of the past 14 years of war in the country. The devastating impacts of this prolonged conflict have left millions displaced, communities fractured, and hopes for peace and dignity unrealized. Thus, this moment presents an opportunity for a new beginning and a future in which all Syrians can live free from oppression with their dignity and freedom respected.

CMEP opposes armed militancy as a mechanism of asserting power over the general populace. We therefore call on the United States government to support a Syrian-led transition to an inclusive state, where the rights and protections of all individuals and communities are upheld. This may include engaging with the multiple actors in Syria, including civil society, to support inclusive governance structures so that the principles of justice, accountability, rights, and freedoms guide any path forward. 

In this time of transition, there is still much to be seen about what lies ahead for the people of Syria. The United States government must engage carefully, respecting the autonomy of the Syrian people and rejecting efforts by neighboring countries to violate Syria’s territorial integrity. In addition, humanitarian access and the provision of aid are still a necessity and should continue, especially as many Syrians who have sought refuge outside of the country consider returning. 

CMEP offers its support and solidarity with Syria's churches and the Christian community. CMEP calls on the current and incoming Administration to urge that the rights of all religious and ethnic communities in Syria are guaranteed. A future in which safety, inclusion, and freedom for all religious communities to practice their faith without oppression or persecution is possible. Syria’s rich and diverse cultural heritage must be preserved, with all communities able to live free from fear and oppression. 

CMEP reaffirms our commitment to advocating for a just and lasting peace in Syria, rooted in human rights, dignity, and the pursuit of reconciliation for all, including those who have suffered in this protracted crisis.

Formed in 1984, Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) is a coalition of more than 30 national church communions and organizations, including Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, and Evangelical traditions that works to encourage US policies that actively promote a comprehensive resolution to conflicts in the Middle East with a focus on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. CMEP works to mobilize US Christians to embrace a holistic perspective and to be advocates of equality, human rights, security, and justice for Israelis, Palestinians, and all people of the Middle East.

Recent CMEP Statements and Press Releases:

Dec 9, 2024 International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime
On December 9, 2024, CMEP and 22 other humanitarian organizations marked the anniversary of the Genocide Convention by urging decisive global action to address the ongoing atrocities in Gaza. Despite the treaty’s commitment to uphold “never again” and a 2023 International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling affirming the obligation to prevent genocide, the international community has failed to act meaningfully. The joint statement called for accountability, protection of civilians, and an end to violence, warning that inaction enables crimes to persist. As the signers emphasized, “History has shown that failing to act in the face of atrocity allows the unthinkable to become reality.” This day serves as a solemn reminder that words must be matched by action to uphold the principles of justice and human dignity.

Nov 27, 2024 Churches for Middle East Peace Welcomes News of a Ceasefire Between Hezbollah and Israel
Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) welcomes the news of a ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel. We commend the cessation of hostilities and urge all parties to adhere strictly to the terms of the ceasefire. It is essential that this moment of respite leads to a sustained peace for all of the people of the region. We emphasize the urgent need for all parties to refrain from hostilities impacting civilians, particularly as families begin to return to their homes in both South Lebanon and Northern Israel. The safety and dignity of these individuals must remain a top priority.

Nov 20, 2024 CMEP Sponsors Take a Stand for the Holy Land Campaign
Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) is co-sponsoring the Take a Stand for the Holy Land Campaign alongside the Palestinian Christian Alliance for Peace (PCAP) and Friends of Sabeel North America. This campaign was created to call attention to Israel’s confiscation of Christian and Muslim property and escalation of violence against Palestinians. The campaign is also endorsed by sixteen organizations, including groups from nine major US denominations as per the latest press release. Take a Stand for the Holy Land aims to increase awareness among American Christians on the land left and persecution facing the Palestinian Christian community.

Nov 13, 2024 Gaza Humanitarian Snapshot #7
Humanitarian aid entering Gaza has fallen to an all-time low. CMEP, along with dozens of other humanitarian organizations, outlines the dire conditions found in Gaza in this Humanitarian Snapshot. These include the direct targeting of aid workers and aid distribution points. Furthermore, tens of thousands of civilians are still trapped in Northern Gaza, which Israel has stated is a combat zone and will not allow aid to enter the region.

See all of our public statements and press releases.