UK should work for peace not war in Middle East, Quakers say

Source: Quakers in Britain

Quakers in Britain have called on the UK government to focus on building a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East.

The call comes after the news that British military bases will be used to bomb Iran as part of 'defensive' operations to attack missile facilities.

Quakers warn that military action will not make Britain or its allies safer. It will escalate the conflict, deepen regional instability, and endanger countless more lives.

"As Quakers, we believe that every life is precious," said Paul Parker, Recording Clerk of Quakers in Britain. "We mourn every life already lost because of this conflict and fear the lasting implications if it is allowed to spread.

"We urge the UK government to reverse its decision to support bombing. The use of British military bases to bomb Iran, even under the guise of 'defensive' operations, risks escalating the conflict and putting millions of lives at risk.

"Stability and security are achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and careful long-term peacemaking, not through threats or weapons, which bring destruction, pain and death."

Parker's words follow a statement by American Quaker organisation Friends National Committee on Legislation, which strongly condemns US and Israeli actions as well as the violent actions of the Iranian government towards its own people.