(Vatican Radio) The chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB)
Committee on International Justice and Peace says the current conflict in Iraq demands
humanitarian assistance from the United States in addition to diplomatic measures.
In a June 19 letter to Ambassador Susan E. Rice, National Security Advisor, Bishop
Richard Pates of Des Moines, Iowa said “Our nation bears a special responsibility
toward the people of Iraq. The U.S.-led invasion and occupation unleashed both sectarian
conflicts and extremism in Iraq, two tragic unintended consequences that have profound
and continuing repercussions for the people of Iraq.”
“It is appropriate that the Administration is urging political leaders in Iraq to
form an inclusive government. For too long, large elements of Iraqi society have felt
disenfranchised. It is critical that all ethnic and religious groups are represented
at the table of governance so that the common good of all is served,” Bishop Pates
said. “Extremists have been exploiting the divisions born of exclusion and the weakening
of the rule of law.”
Bishop Pates echoed the words of Pope Francis in his recent request for prayers “for
the dear Iraqi nation, especially for the victims and for those who most suffer the
consequences of the growing violence, in particular the many persons, among whom are
so many Christians, who have had to leave their homes.”
He also noted the efforts for peace and prayers from Chaldean Patriarch Louis Raphael
I Sako, who has called for a day of “fasting and prayer for the restoration of security
and stability in Iraq” on June 18. The Patriarch has said that “the best solution
to all these problems is the creation of a government of national unity” to strengthen
“the rule of law.”
Bishop Pates also called for continued efforts to seek political solution in neighboring
Syria for the protection of Christians and other minorities. “The United States should
work with the international community, including Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and all
responsible parties in Syria. It is critical to obtain a ceasefire, initiate serious
negotiations, provide impartial humanitarian assistance, and encourage efforts to
build an inclusive society in Syria,” he wrote.
The full text of the letter is available online: http://http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/global-issues/middle-east/iraq/upload/letter-nsa-rice-iraq-2014-06-19.pdf
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