Pope: No solution from terrorism, peace in Israel and Palestine

Francis' appeal at the Angelus in the face of violence that has "exploded even more ferociously". The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem: "We have gone back to the worst periods of our history. There is an urgent need for a lasting and comprehensive solution to the conflict."

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "Terrorism and war lead to no solution, but only to the death and suffering of many innocent people," warned Pope Francis today at tge Angelus following the dramatic news emerging from the Holy Land.

"I am following with apprehension and pain what is happening in Israel - said Francis, addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square - where the violence has exploded even more ferociously, causing hundreds of deaths and injuries. I express my closeness to the families of the victims, I pray for them and for all those who are experiencing hours of terror and anguish. Please stop the attacks and weapons and understand that terrorism and war do not lead to any solution, but only to the death and suffering of so many innocents. War is a defeat: every war is a defeat! Let us pray for peace in Israel and Palestine."

"In this month of October, dedicated not only to the missions, but also to the prayer of the Rosary - he added - let us not tire of invoking, through the intercession of Mary, the gift of peace on the many countries of the world marked by wars and conflicts; and we continue to remember dear Ukraine, which suffers so much every day, so tormented."

Yesterday afternoon the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem had issued a note on the very serious situation in Southern Israel and Gaza: "The cycle of violence that has killed numerous Palestinians and Israelis in recent months exploded this morning. We witnessed a sudden explosion of violence which is worrying due to its extent and intensity. The operation launched from Gaza and the reaction of the Israeli army take us back to the worst periods in our history."

"The continuous bloodshed and declarations of war remind us once again of the urgent need to find a lasting and comprehensive solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in this land which is called to be the land of justice, peace and reconciliation between the peoples. We ask God to inspire world leaders in their intervention to bring peace and harmony so that Jerusalem can be a house of prayer for all peoples."

• Angelus
• Pope Francis
• Israel
• Palestine