By The opinion
Apr 14, 2024, 11:35 AM EDT
Pope Francis launched a “urgent appeal” to avoid “a spiral of violence with the risk of dragging the Middle East into an even greater war conflict” and called on the international community to help Israelis and Palestinians live in “two neighboring states.”
“I urgently call for all actions to stop that can fuel a spiral of violence with the risk of bringing the Middle East into even greater conflict. “No one should threaten the existence of another,” said the pontiff, who follows with “concern and also pain” the events after Iran’s attack on Israel.
The Middle East is facing a moment of maximum tension after the attack on Israel by Iran, which last night launched more than 300 drones, missiles and ballistic missiles that left no victims but is the first attack of this type from Iranian soil.
“All nations stand on the side of peace and help Israelis and Palestinians live in two states, side by side, surely, is your deep and lawful desire and your right. Two neighboring states,” he said after praying the ‘Regina Coeli’, which replaces the Angelus during the Easter period.
From the window of the Apostolic Palace before the thousands of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Francis also pleaded for “a quick ceasefire in Gaza” and for “the paths of negotiation to be followed,” he said, repeating that last word: “negotiation”.
He also urged that “With determination, we help the population plunged into a humanitarian catastrophe.” and the hostages kidnapped months ago be quickly released. “So much suffering! Let us pray for peace.”
“Enough with war, enough with attacks, enough with violence, let there be dialogue and peace”asked Francisco, whose call was received with applause in the square.
The Italian Presidency of the G7 has called a video conference this Sunday with the leaders of the seven richest democracies in the world to discuss the attack, while the UN Security Council will hold an emergency session at the request of Israel.
With information from EFE.
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