Staff Reporter
The Zimbabwe Interdenominational Churches held a World Day of Prayer event at the Anglican Cathedral on Wednesday, using the occasion to vehemently condemn what they describe as the “genocide” of the Palestinian people by Israel.
While the World Day of Prayer is traditionally celebrated on the first Friday of March, communities often choose alternative dates for their observances.
Several churches and local residents have voiced their outrage over the ongoing Israeli military actions and the humanitarian crisis in Palestine.
Various associations, including the Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trust (ZNOART), have expressed their support for the Palestinian struggle against what they describe as brutality and cruelty stemming from the Israeli occupation.
ZNOART national chairperson, Mr Shalvar Chikomba, criticized the international community’s inaction regarding war crimes committed by Israel, calling for the closure of Israeli embassies worldwide and the expulsion of Israeli diplomats.
“ZNOART places on record that it condemns in the strongest terms the no response stance that has been taken by the international community, particularly the United Nations and the International Criminal Court, while Israel commits war crimes and crimes against humanity,” said Mr Chikomba, emphasizing that international laws must be applied uniformly and not selectively.
The Harare chairperson of the Zimbabwe Combined Residents and Ratepayers Association (ZICORRA), Mr Lawrence Kuleya, urged regional leaders in the Middle East to intervene and called on the international community to work towards a lasting solution that prioritizes human lives.
“It is the innocent citizens, the poor, the women, children and other vulnerable who suffer the most from the consequences of wars and conflicts,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Mr Robert Mutyasira, chairperson of the Borrowdale Residents and Ratepayers Association (BRRA), condemned the actions of those perpetuating the crisis, stating that “These atrocities are premised on unnecessary egos that demean humanity. Human life is sacred and should never be used as leverage for sustaining the agendas of politicians.”
The Ambassador of the State of Palestine, Tamer Almassri, expressed gratitude for the support from the Zimbabwean people, drawing parallels between the struggles of Palestinians and Zimbabweans against oppression.
“I appreciated the support we are getting from the people of Zimbabwe… But Zimbabwe will not be stopped by sanctions through the visionary leadership of President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa,” said Ambassador Almassri.
As of July 31, 2024, the ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering death toll of over 40,000, with 39,145 Palestinians and 1,478 Israelis reported killed since the outbreak of hostilities. This includes the tragic loss of 108 journalists and over 224 humanitarian aid workers, highlighting the severe impact of the conflict on civilians and those attempting to provide assistance.
The gathering at the Anglican Cathedral serves as a poignant reminder of the global call for peace and justice in the face of ongoing violence and humanitarian crises.
