ICF Committee Statement to Utilize the Ceasefire between Israel and Iran for Constructive Dialogue

Respect human life. Choose peace.

We at the Interfaith Cooperation Forum (ICF) express deep concern over the recent war between Israel and Iran, which has caused great suffering, fear, and loss of life across the region. As a peace-building network with thousands of alumni, partners, and allies from different faiths and countries across Asia and thePacific, we stand with all innocent people affected by this violence, no matter their religion or nationality.

War will not bring peace. It only creates more pain, division, and destruction. No goal can justify the harm being done to families, children, and communities.

We urge all leaders and international organizations to utilize the current ceasefire effectively to create space for meaningful dialogue, end the violence, and foster understanding and peaceful solutions. Let the fighting end. Let compassion and justice lead the way.

To the people of Iran, Israel, Palestine, and nearby areas: We see you. We stand with you. You deserve to live in safety, with dignity and peace. This is not a time to stay silent. It is a time to say clearly: Respect human life. Let us choose peace over the greed for power. Utilize the Ceasefire for Constructive Dialogue.

We pray for those who are suffering and grieving. We call on everyone with power to act now to stop the violence and help build a better future. Peace is possible—if we have the courage to listen, understand, and care. Let us choose peace over power, and compassion over conflict.

 ICF Staff & ICF Committee Members:

·      Muriel Orevillo-Montenegro - Philippines

·      Baidido M. Saganding - Philippines

·      Annika Denkmann - Germany

·      Retha Andoea – Indonesia

·      Edward Daniel Simamora - Indonesia

·      Puansari Siregar - Indonesia

·      Hein Thura Htet  -Myanmar

·      Dunhill Angelo Maraya - Philippines

·      Hamsiya Olimpain – Philippines

·      Dory Dotusme - Philippines

·      Leonardo Gamboa – Timor-Leste

·      Leonia Freitas – Timor Leste

·      Rinku Mankhin - Bangladesh

·      Psyche Mankhin - Bangladesh

·      Mohammad Ayatullah Rahaman - Nepal

·      Rajan Bhandari  - Nepal

·      Rachel Thuy - Vietnam

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