The withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Palestinian territories and the cessation of attacks on civilians and properties: these are the main requests in an appeal made by the secretary general of the World Lutheran Federation, Ismael Noko. For the second time in the space of a few days, Noko has written to the Israeli premier Ariel Sharon urging him to listen to the international community and “take a step backwards from the road of war”. In particular, Noko asked Sharon to consider the proposal put forward by Saudi Arabia for the peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine. In his letter the secretary general of the WLF recalled the dramatic situation of the “Augusta Victoria” hospital in East Jerusalem. Not only is its permanent staff prevented from entering the city, in spite of permits, but the hospital is fast running out of its medical supplies, including blood, “in a moment in which there is more need for it than ever”. Noko also points out that the Lutheran community of Bethlehem has been assaulted by Israeli troops in “clear violation of international laws”.
