A devastating humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Afghanistan, where the Taliban swiftly seized control of the capital on August 15.
A devastating humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Afghanistan, where the Taliban swiftly seized control of the capital on August 15.
In a released statement, the USCCB expressed grave concern over the desperate and chaotic scene engulfing the country.
“The images and videos coming out of the country are difficult to view, as people make life or death decisions in desperation. We are particularly concerned for all those requiring evacuation, as well as Afghan women and girls, who risk losing opportunities gained over the last two decades and now face potential mistreatment,” the U.S. Bishops said.
Read the statement in its entirety here.
In St. Peter’s square on Monday, Pope Francis also asked all to join him in “praying to the God of peace, so that the clamor of weapons might cease and solutions can be found at the table of dialogue.”
The USCCB also recognized the suffering of the people of Haiti this week, who suffered a devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake on Aug. 14, leaving over 2,000 dead, 10,000 injured, and hundreds of thousands in need of emergency humanitarian assistance. To complicate matters worse, the country’s civil unrest has left it vulnerable to gangs, who are blocking access to some of the worst hit areas.
“Catholics and all people of good will may assist in the relief work by contacting Catholic Relief Services. I am grateful to all who can support the relief effort for our brothers and sisters in Haiti,” said USCCB President José H. Gomez in the statement.
Click here for a list of Organizations to Support Earthquake Relief Efforts in Haiti