Ishmael Noko, secretary general of the World Lutheran Federation, has “vigorously protested” against the occupation and damage of a Lutheran school and a rehabilitation centre in Bethlehem by Israeli armed forces. In a letter to Israeli Prime Minister Sharon, Noko has requested the cessation of every military action and the reparation of the damage caused. “ These places writes Noko are oases of hope in the midst of so much violence, and the military occupation of these institutions represents a grave violation of the principles of international humanitarian law”. The Israeli armed forces entered the “Dar al Kalima” school and the “Center Wellness” in Bethlehem on 9 and 11 March. The school was founded by the Lutheran Evangelic Church of Jordan and is attended by 240 students, while the rehabilitation centre provides a home for many traumatized children. In his letter Noko appeals to Prime Minister Sharon to “take all the necessary steps to break the vicious circle of violence and restore hope to the Palestinian people”.
