World Vision welcomes temporary truce in Middle East Crisis in Thanksgiving weekend message

LONDON, Nov 24, 2023 – Reverend Andrew Morley, president and Chief Executive Officer of the international aid agency World Vision International, has used his Thanksgiving weekend message to welcome the truce in the Middle East Crisis. In addition, Mr Morley has called for a longer-term ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian aid to those who need it.  

Rev. Morley says, “As millions celebrate Thanksgiving this weekend and share what they are thankful for, I too want to give thanks for the temporary ceasefire which is taking place amidst the crisis in the Middle East. Our hearts have been broken by the events we have seen over the past 47 days.”

“At World Vision, a child-focused Christian development and humanitarian organisation, we have prayed constantly for the children impacted by these tragic events, and for their suffering to stop. I am truly thankful that all sides in the conflict around Gaza have managed to achieve a temporary ceasefire and we will continue to pray that this marks the end of children having to endure more death and destruction. I am compelled by our Christian faith to call for a longer-term ceasefire by all parties to the conflict.”

“In addition to a longer cessation in hostilities, another of the most pressing concerns in this crisis is the need for unimpeded humanitarian access. As a global community, it is our responsibility to ensure that aid reaches those in dire need without hindrance.”

“This Thanksgiving as we gather with our own families, we mourn with all families who have lost loved ones and pray for more peaceful, loving, hopeful days ahead.”

World Vision is currently supporting vulnerable children in West Bank and Lebanon by responding to urgent family needs, creating safe spaces, and providing psychological services. They are also responding in other areas where displaced people will need help and will continue to support through the crisis. World Vision is not operating in Gaza and has not since 2016.

ENDS

Notes to editor:

For more information please contact: World Vision’s Middle East Crisis Response Communications Manager Charles Lawley charles_lawley@wvi.org

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian and development organisation dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities to reach their full potential by tackling the root causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. For more information, please visit www.wvi.org or follow us on Twitter @WorldVision