The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem welcomed “with joy” the announcement of an initial agreement between Hamas and Israel, but also stressed the urgency for the “unconditional” entry of humanitarian relief and sufficient aid into Gaza. Source: OSV News.
The agreement anticipates an end to the two-year long war in Gaza and allows for the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prison.
It follows American, Egyptian, and Qatari mediation efforts, CNA reports. US President Donald Trump announced yesterday via his Truth Social platform that a temporary ceasefire had been reached, including the mutual release of hostages and the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
The patriarchate, in a statement overnight, said it “ardently hopes that this accord will be fully and faithfully implemented, so that it may mark the beginning of the end of this terrible war”.
“Above all, the patriarchate prays that this step may open a path of healing and reconciliation for both Palestinians and Israelis.”
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa called the announcement “good news” and a “first step,” noting in the statement that there will be other phases that will need to be implemented. But for now, he said, the patriarchate was “very happy”.
“Of course, there are many others, and surely there will be other obstacles. But now we have to rejoice about this important step that will bring a little more trust for the future and also bring new hope, especially to the people, both Israeli and Palestinians,” Cardinal Pizzaballa said in the statement.
The statement also quoted the cardinal as emphasising that there would be a “new atmosphere” for the continuation of the negotiations and for life inside Gaza, which will “remain terrible for a long time.”
In its statement the patriarchate reiterated its call for the day of prayer for peace declared by Pope Leo XIV for October 11.
FULL STORY
Holy Land Patriarch welcomes announcement of initial peace deal ‘with joy’ as ‘first step’ (By Judith Sudilovsky, OSV News)
Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem welcomes Gaza agreement as step toward ending war (CNA)
