Archbishop urges support of Christians in southern Lebanon

Statement by Regina Lynch, President of Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) International.

Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has received with deep concern the urgent appeal issued by His Excellency Archbishop Georges Iskandar, Melkite Greek Catholic Archbishop of Tyre, regarding the growing insecurity affecting the city of Tyre in Southern Lebanon and, in particular, its historic Old Quarter.

At this critical moment, ACN expresses its solidarity with the local Church and with all the civilians who remain in the city, especially families, children, the elderly, and the most vulnerable.

We are particularly concerned for the safety of the inhabitants of the historic Christian quarter and for the preservation of a Christian presence that has been rooted in Tyre since apostolic times.

Tyre occupies a unique place in the history of Christianity and in the spiritual heritage of Lebanon. Its churches, communities, and historic neighborhoods are living witnesses to centuries of faith, coexistence, and resilience.

Any threat to civilian lives, places of worship, or this precious religious and cultural heritage is a cause of profound concern.

Over the years, ACN has accompanied and supported families living in the Old Quarter of Tyre. We know these communities personally. We have visited their homes, prayed in their churches, and witnessed their determination to maintain a Christian presence in this historic city despite numerous challenges. For this reason, the current threats facing the civilian population and the historic Christian quarter are of particular concern to us.

Today, our thoughts and prayers are especially with these families and with all those facing renewed uncertainty and fear.

ACN joins the appeal of the local Church and calls on all those with responsibility and influence to do everything possible to prevent further suffering, displacement, and destruction.

We urge all parties to respect human dignity, safeguard non-combatants, and protect religious sites and historic communities.

In these difficult days, we entrust the people of Tyre and all the people of Lebanon to the mercy of God. We pray for peace, security, and stability, and we reaffirm our commitment to stand alongside the local Church as it continues to serve those affected by fear, uncertainty, and conflict.

May God protect the people of Tyre, preserve Lebanon, and grant peace to the region.

Regina Lynch
President, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) International