Episcopal Relief and Development has partnered with the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) to provide its initial response to the conflict in Iraq.

ERD is giving critical assistance to people seeking shelter, food, and other essentials in Iraq and its neighboring countries of Jordan, Syria, Turkey, and Iran. MECC is making preparations for the large numbers of Iraqi people staying within the country and is stocking its relief distribution centers in Baghdad, Mousel, Kerkuk, and Basra.

ERD remains in conversation with the President-Bishop of the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East and Anglican Bishop in Cyprus and the Gulf George Clive Handford. The Most Reverend Handford reports that relatively few people have left Iraq and those entering through Jordan have been expedited to other countries in the Middle East where they have family.

So far, Episcopal Relief and Development is providing $25,000 to expand efforts to help refugees and internally displaced people in Iraq. ERD continues to pray for people affected by the war and will continue to monitor the region and respond to needs as they arise.