Hamas launched an unprecedented attack with thousands of missiles across land, sea and air on Saturday morning, killing dozens and injuring over 700 people. Israel retaliated with airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in 161 dead and almost 1,000 injured. 

Christians and world leaders have joined together to condemn the attack. The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have issued a joint statement calling for restraint on both sides: “We are grieved and deeply concerned at the violence in Israel and Gaza, and we unequivocally condemn the attacks by Hamas. We pray for those who are mourning, those who are injured, and all those fearing for their safety. We pray for restraint on all sides and renewed efforts towards a just peace for all. The way forward must be for both sides to build confidence in a secure future through which Israel and its people can live in security within its internationally recognised borders, and Palestinians have their own state and live in their lands in security and with peace and justice.” 

Rev. Johnnie Moore, head of the Congress of Christian Leaders, put out an emergency appeal to pray “for the peace and security of Israel.” He said: “Churches all over the world will gather this weekend standing with Israel and dedicating time to pray for Israel”. 

According to philosopher and Anglican theologian Phillip Blond: “Islamism once again deliberately massacring civilians – this time in Israel – where they are roaming the streets killing women and children with knives and guns – glorifying in their brutality as they torture, maim and kill. This is what we all must fight for; it is manifest evil.”