Palestinian Christians have urged protests by church groups around the world against an Israeli assault on ships bringing aid to Gaza, which has led to the deaths of at least 10 activists.

In countries across six continents, a wide diversity of religious communities, people of faith, human rights and peace organisations are preparing to mark the World Week for Peace in Palestine Israel.

A new Israeli military order that categorizes tens of thousands of Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank as “infiltrators” – ostensibly because they lack the proper permits – and gives military officers sweeping control over their deportation. A group of Palestinian Christian theologians explains why this is morally and politically wrong, and explains how people of good will can raise their voices against an injustice which militates against peace with justice for all in Israel-Palestine.

The existential, legal and social reality of Palestinian men and women living under occupation is the often hidden reality of the political stasis of the region, says Harry Hagopian. Since the ultimate losers of this political stasis are ordinary Palestinians and Israelis, they should be leading the struggle for peace.