WASHINGTON—With the breaking news of a formal ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas, Martine Miller, President & CEO (interim) of the International Center for Religion & Diplomacy (ICRD), released the following statement:
“The International Center for Religion & Diplomacy (ICRD) welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, including the release of hostages and detainees, as a significant step toward alleviating the humanitarian crisis that has devastated countless lives. This agreement, while fragile, represents a moment of hope amid a deeply painful conflict.
“The phased release of hostages and Palestinian detainees underscores the power of negotiation and the resilience of those who have tirelessly advocated for human dignity on both sides. Every life saved, every family reunited, and every pause in violence remind us that, even in the darkest times, pathways to peace are possible.
“The planned movement of humanitarian aid into Gaza and return of hostages to their families is urgently needed to address the catastrophic experiences and conditions faced by millions of civilians. At ICRD, we believe this moment must not only provide relief but also lay the groundwork for long-term efforts to rebuild trust, infrastructure, and livelihoods in the region. This includes prioritizing the safety and well-being of displaced Palestinians returning to their homes while ensuring that future agreements uphold human rights, safety and justice for all.
“We recognize, however, that this ceasefire, like others before it, is not an end to the conflict but an opportunity to change its trajectory. Sustainable peace requires addressing the underlying causes of violence: systemic inequities, historical grievances, and entrenched narratives of fear and mistrust. Achieving this demands bold, inclusive solutions that amplify marginalized voices and prioritize coexistence and thoughtful social cohesion over division.
“As discussions about the future governance of Gaza unfold, ICRD emphasizes the importance of empowering Palestinians to shape their own destiny, free from external coercion. Efforts to rebuild Gaza must be transparent, inclusive, and guided by principles of justice and equity. Importantly, human rights, safety, and justice of all individuals in the region—both Israelis and Palestinians—must be upheld as a foundational principle for long-term peace. Violence and fear must not dictate the course of the future; rather, dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect must form the basis of a shared vision for coexistence and thoughtful social cohesion.
The international community has a critical role to play in facilitating these efforts by supporting local leadership, fostering multilateral partnerships that prioritize peace and reconciliation, and investing in initiatives that build trust, encourage cross-community collaboration, and amplify voices advocating for nonviolent and more thoughtful solutions. By working hand in hand, the path to a just and peaceful future for both peoples can be realized.
“ICRD stands in solidarity with all those who continue to advocate for justice, dignity, and reconciliation in the region. We remain committed to supporting the courageous work of civil society, faith leaders, and peacebuilders, particularly women and youth, who tirelessly demonstrate that humanity’s capacity for healing and transformation is boundless, even in the face of immense challenges. We envision this moment as a turning point for the global community to recommit to the values of compassion, dialogue, and mutual respect that form the foundation of true and lasting peace.”