Iowa ? A coalition of Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders is calling for American and Iranian authorities to open negotiations and stop planning for war.

The statement, “A Pax on Both Our Houses” says the war in Iraq demonstrates how war wastes lives and resources, and violates human rights. “Pax” is Latin for “peace.”

Organizers also argue that U.S. intelligence reports that concluded Iran had shut down its nuclear weapons program is further evidence that armed conflict should be avoided.

The statement was released in Iowa to draw attention to Iran during the campaign. Voters will choose Democratic and Republican presidential nominees in caucuses Jan. 3.