This Week in the World: If War Is Not the Answer, What Is?

Following the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump last weekend, we joined people of faith and conscience around the country to reject political violence in all its forms.

Just as violence is not the answer to political conflict here at home, it is not the answer to security challenges abroad.

Time and again, we’ve seen how military force has failed to achieve its objectives while inflicting a terrible human toll.

But if war’s not the answer, what is?

Despite the lessons of the post-9/11 forever wars, debates over how to respond to potential threats from international armed groups are still too often framed as a choice between waging war and doing nothing. This could not be further from the truth.

In her insightful new report, FCNL’s Heather Brandon-Smith breaks down three key non-military tools the U.S. has to support peace, stability, and security around the globe without waging destructive, counterproductive violence.

First, by shifting resources to peacebuilding and development programs, we can help address the root causes of security threats and promote peace in countries impacted by conflict.

Next, by investing in diplomacy, we can support negotiated settlements to wars with armed groups that break the cycle of violence and promote long-term stability.

Finally, rather than using lethal force as first resort, we can better respond to threats, gather intelligence, and hold individuals accountable by shifting toward law enforcement approaches grounded in international human rights law and due process.

As a Quaker organization, this is not just a matter of strategy, but also of faith.

In 1967, Martin Luther King Jr. stated that the United States was “the greatest purveyor of violence in the world.” Tragically, his words ring even more true today.

As we confront the threat of political violence this election season, we must also reckon with King’s indictment and embrace a new paradigm for security that fosters peace.

Elsewhere

Love Your Neighbor, No Exceptions

We are dismayed by the recent assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. We hold him, those killed and wounded, and everyone affected by this traumatic event in the Light. As Quakers, we believe that there is that of God in everyone. We are called to love our neighbors without exception.

Our democracy should unite our country through common values, collaborative decision-making, and nonviolent conflict resolution . This is still possible. We must not lose hope.

Across the country, people of faith are working to ensure a peaceful election. Check out our list of resources and opportunities to learn how you can help.

Who are we listening to about Gaza?

Next week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will address Congress as Israel restricts food, fuel, and humanitarian assistance to Gaza and ruthlessly bombs the territory.

Ahead of his address, we’re working to make sure Congress also hears voices for peace. This past week we cohosted an event for Congress on how the continuing conflict in Gaza damages U.S. national security, highlighting that the pragmatic case for a ceasefire is just as strong as the convicting moral case.

On Wednesday, we’ll also be joining with Churches for Middle East Peace to pray for peace – please join us if you able.

Anniversary of Trinity Test

79 years ago this week, the U.S. detonated the first nuclear bomb. Ever since, FCNL has been working to eliminate these weapons. Thousands of Americans live with the devastating consequences of nuclear tests. Congress has allowed legislation that compensates these victims to expire – urge them to act.

Student Activism, Past and Future

Students have been coming together in new ways to advocate for peace and freedom in Palestine. Join us at Friends Place on Capitol Hill or online via Zoom on July 31 at 6:30 p.m. ET for “Students Uniting Then & Now” to discuss student activism.