Official ratification awaited after Israeli government meeting. In a statement, the Latin primate of Jerusalem speaks of “a first phase” which nevertheless represents “good news”. Fr Romanelli calls for “just and lasting peace”. Consensus reached on the release of prisoners and the withdrawal of troops, but unresolved issues remain to be defined in subsequent phases.
While negotiations continue in Sharm el-Sheikh for the release of the hostages still alive, the family of Bipin Joshi, the last Asian hostage whose fate is still unknown, has authorised the release of some images proving that he was still alive two months after he was seized. The family is “barely holding on” to this.
The vicar to Israel spoke to AsiaNews, expressing hope that peace talks will be given a real chance to stop the carnage in Gaza. Tomorrow, the anniversary of the Hamas attack, prayers will take place to Our Lady of the Rosary on her feast day so that she "supports us on our journey.” For the prelate, unresolved issues remain. “Israelis and Palestinians must show the will to move forward.” The Church's role is to mediate and include.
Announced by Cardinal Pizzaballa and CEI Secretary General Monsignor Baturi. A long-term project to respond to the devastating crisis in the Strip. A pilgrimage by Italian bishops is also being considered. Ten years of Christian contribution to healthcare, from hospitals to the distribution of free medicines and treatment.
For the Jewish leader, a leading figure in relations with Christians and Muslims, the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi is a "natural partner" to develop point 18 of the US plan to end the war in Gaza. “Such a clause already appears in the Abraham Accords, but nothing was implemented,” he said. For him, everyone is “blessed by the presence of as very wise as well as deeply spiritual Latin Patriarch (Pierbattista Pizzaballa) who understands the fears and aspirations of the different sides of conflict.”
The Palestinian Catholic leader welcomes the 20-point Gaza proposal. For him, it is imperative to stop death and destruction. The issue of Hamas (which is factionally divided) still needs to be addressed. There is hope for a first step towards ending the conflict, and rebuilding without displacing the population or turning Gaza into a “Riviera”. An international force is important as is the role of Muslim countries like Indonesia.