Pope Francis has called for peace in Israel and Palestine as the conflict between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants continues to escalate.
During his Sunday address at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, the Pope expressed his concern and urged an end to the violence.
“War is a defeat. All war is a defeat. Let us pray for peace in Israel and Palestine,” Pope Francis emphasized.
While he did not specifically mention the Gaza Strip or the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which launched a major attack on Israel, the Pope urged an immediate cessation of hostilities.
“I follow with apprehension and pain what is happening in Israel… I express my solidarity with the families of the victims. I pray for all those who are living through hours of terror and anguish,” the Pope said, addressing the crowds gathered after his traditional Angelus prayer.
He continued, “May the attacks and the weapons cease, I beg you. Terrorism and war do not lead to a solution, but only to the death and suffering of many innocent people.”
Pope Francis’ plea for peace comes as fresh violence erupted in the Holy Land when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, firing hundreds of rockets and making armed incursions.
In response, Israel initiated retaliatory airstrikes, and the nation’s Prime Minister declared that the country is at war.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem also released a statement expressing sorrow over the casualties and tragedies affecting both Palestinians and Israelis.
They called on the international community and religious leaders to intervene and help de-escalate the situation while emphasizing the importance of maintaining the “Status Quo” regarding the Holy Places in the Holy Land, particularly in Jerusalem.
The statement concluded with a prayer for world leaders to work towards peace and concord in the region.
