US Bishops urge Obama to provide diplomatic & humanitarian aid to Iraq

The current conflict in Iraq demands humanitarian assistance from the United States in addition to diplomatic measures, said the chairman of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on International Justice and Peace in a June 19 letter to Ambassador Susan E Rice, National Security Advisor. The letter was delivered just before President Obama held a press conference on Iraq.

“Our nation bears a special responsibility toward the people of Iraq. The US-led invasion and occupation unleashed both sectarian conflicts and extremism in Iraq, two tragic unintended consequences that have profound and continuing repercussions for the people of Iraq,” said Bishop Richard E Pates of Des Moines, Iowa.

“It is appropriate that the Administration is urging political leaders in Iraq to form an inclusive government. For too long, large elements of Iraqi society have felt disenfranchised. It is critical that all ethnic and religious groups are represented at the table of governance so that the common good of all is served,” Bishop Pates said. “Extremists have been exploiting the divisions born of exclusion and the weakening of the rule of law.”

Bishop Pates echoed the words of Pope Francis in his recent request for prayers “for the dear Iraqi nation, especially for the victims and for those who most suffer the consequences of the growing violence, in particular the many persons, among whom are so many Christians, who have had to leave their homes.”

He also noted the efforts for peace and prayers from Chaldean Patriarch Louis Raphael I Sako, who called for a day of “fasting and prayer for the restoration of security and stability in Iraq” on June 18. The Patriarch has said that “the best solution to all these problems is the creation of a government of national unity” to strengthen “the rule of law.”

Bishop Pates also called for continued efforts to seek political solution in neighboring Syria for the protection of Christians and other minorities. “The United States should work with the international community, including Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and all responsible parties in Syria. It is critical to obtain a ceasefire, initiate serious negotiations, provide impartial humanitarian assistance, and encourage efforts to build an inclusive society in Syria,” he wrote.

The full text of the letter is available online. www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/global-issues/middle-east/iraq/upload/letter-nsa-rice-iraq-2014-06-19.pdf