Leaders of Albania's five major religious communities have issued a joint statement urging an immediate end to the war in Gaza and the release of all hostages. The appeal was made through the Interreligious Council of Albania and reported by Iliria News.

The statement was signed by Bujar Spahiu, Head of the Albanian Muslim Community; Archbishop Anastasios of the Albanian Orthodox Church; Bishop Gjergj Meta representing the Catholic Church; Baba Edmond Brahimaj, spiritual leader of the global Bektashi order; and Pastor Ergjest Biti of the Evangelical churches.

In the declaration, Albania’s religious leaders aligned themselves with recent international appeals, including those from Religions for Peace Europe, the Latin and Orthodox Patriarchates of Jerusalem, the United Nations, and other global institutions expressing grave concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank.

"We call for an end to violence and the protection of innocent civilian lives, especially women and children who are the primary victims of this conflict. Forced displacement, the obstruction of humanitarian aid, and the destruction of basic infrastructure represent severe violations of human dignity and cannot be justified," the statement reads.

The council emphasized that lasting peace can only be achieved through justice, compassion, and mutual respect. Albania’s religious leaders urged world leaders, international organizations, and all people of goodwill to intensify efforts toward ending the conflict, providing humanitarian relief, and building a just and sustainable peace in the Holy Land.