In a powerful statement issued on March 3, 2026, the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) has joined global appeals for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East, responding to the severe escalation of hostilities involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. This call comes amid reports of widespread destruction in Tehran, where airstrikes by the US and Israel have left buildings damaged and debris scattered, as captured in a photo from March 3, 2026.
Bishops Echo Pope's Plea for Peace
The FABC, through a statement signed by its central committee, aligned itself with the urgent appeal of Pope Leo XIV, who emphasized that true peace cannot be constructed through threats or military might. "We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and for all parties to exercise moral responsibility, resisting the spiral of escalation that leads only to deeper suffering and irreversible loss," the bishops declared, highlighting the moral imperative to halt the violence.
Concerns Over Escalating Violence
Expressing deep concern, the Asian bishops pointed to the "recent cycles of bombardment and retaliation" involving global and regional powers, warning that such actions risk plunging the region and the world into a conflict with incalculable human and economic consequences. They stressed that the ongoing violence, particularly the coordinated strikes and retaliatory measures, threatens to destabilize not only the Middle East but also international security frameworks.
Pathways to Dialogue and Diplomacy
In their appeal, the prelates urged nations to prioritize peaceful dialogue over military action, noting that only "sincere, responsible, and sustained dialogue" can achieve lasting peace. "We urge the restoration of diplomacy as the primary instrument for resolving conflicts. Dialogue, however difficult, remains the only path that respects the dignity of peoples and the sovereignty of nations," the FABC stated, advocating for a return to diplomatic channels to address underlying tensions.
Focus on the Vulnerable
The bishops also called on leaders to center their efforts on the plight of the most affected by the conflict. "We stand with the poor and the victims of war, whose cries often go unheard amid geopolitical calculations. Their suffering must remain at the center of all efforts toward peace," they emphasized, underscoring the humanitarian crisis unfolding as a result of the hostilities.
Background of the Conflict
The escalation began on February 28, 2026, when Israel and the United States coordinated airstrikes on sites in Iran, citing concerns over Iran's nuclear program. In retaliation, Iran launched drones and ballistic missiles at Israel and US military bases across multiple countries, including Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This cycle of attack and counterattack has intensified fears of a broader regional war, prompting urgent calls for de-escalation from religious and international bodies like the FABC.
