The Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) has expressed deep concern over the renewed violence in the Middle East, warning that the ongoing cycle of bombardments and retaliation could lead to catastrophic human and economic consequences.
In a statement released on March 3 from Bangkok, where the FABC Central Committee met in a spirit of synodal communion, the bishops underscored the urgent need for dialogue and diplomacy, echoing Pope Leo XIV’s appeal that peace cannot be built through threats or destructive weapons.
“Stability cannot arise from fear, nor can justice be secured through violence. Only sincere, responsible, and sustained dialogue can open pathways toward a just and lasting peace,” the statement read.
The statement was signed by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, FABC President; Cardinal Pablo David, FABC Vice President; and Cardinal Isao Kikuchi, SVD, FABC Secretary General.
The FABC highlighted the particular vulnerability of the poor, displaced, children, and future generations, stressing that war disproportionately affects those already suffering. The bishops called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urged all parties to exercise moral responsibility and avoid further escalation.
From the Asian context, characterized by religious diversity and deep cultural traditions, the bishops emphasized that peace is not merely the absence of war but “the fruit of justice, the work of dialogue, and the patient building of trust among peoples.”
The statement also called for:
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The restoration of diplomacy as the primary instrument for conflict resolution.
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Interreligious solidarity, particularly among leaders of the region’s major faiths, to witness to the sacredness of life.
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A renewed commitment to stand with the poor and victims of war, ensuring that their suffering remains central to all peace efforts.
The FABC invited local Churches across Asia to intensify prayer, fasting, and concrete acts of solidarity during Lent, affirming hope even amid despair, and concluded by entrusting the peoples of the Middle East to Mary, Queen of Peace.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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