The Vatican has reiterated that a two-state solution is the “only viable and equitable path toward a just and lasting peace” in the Holy Land. Source: Catholic Herald.
Speaking at a conference on the Israel-Palestine question, taking place at the United Nations on Tuesday, the Permanent Observer of the Holy See, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, said the Vatican reiterates its “unequivocal condemnation of the heinous terrorist attack” against Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
At the same time, the archbishop said: “The Holy See remains gravely concerned by the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.
“The devastating impact on civilians, especially the number of children killed, has been compounded by the destruction of homes, hospitals and places of worship, with the recent attack on the Holy Family Church further wounding an already distressed community.”
Three people were killed when an Israeli munition landed on Gaza’s only Catholic church on 17 July, which Israel later said was an accident caused by an inaccurate mortar round.
Archbishop Caccia said the attack was “deeply concerning given that Christians in the region have long played a vital role as a moderating and stabilising presence, promoting dialogue and peace”.
Addressing the wider situation, he added: “The mass displacement of families, the breakdown of essential services, growing famine and widespread deprivation shock the human conscience and require an immediate, coordinated response from the international community.
“Therefore, the Holy See urgently calls for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages, the restitution of the bodies of the deceased, the protection of all Palestinian civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law, and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance.”
Archbishop Caccia then said that the Holy See remains convinced that a two-state solution, based on secure and internationally recognised borders, is needed for a lasting peace.
The archbishop then turned to the situation in Jerusalem, which he called “a city of universal religious and cultural significance”.
“It is sacred to Christians, Jews and Muslims alike. Therefore, it requires a status that transcends political divisions and ensures the preservation of its unique identity,” he said.
Archbishop Caccia said the Holy See reiterated its longstanding call for an internationally guaranteed statute to uphold the dignity and rights of all inhabitants, ensure equality for religious institutions, and protect the city’s sacred heritage.
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Vatican tells UN two-state solution to Israel-Palestine conflict only option (By Charles Collins, Catholic Herald)
