In a heartfelt plea for peace, Pope Francis has called for an immediate halt to the ongoing violence in Israel and Palestine. During his Sunday Angelus prayer, the Pope emphasized the futility of terrorism and war, stressing that they only lead to the suffering and loss of innocent lives.

Expressing his deep concern and sorrow over the recent escalation of violence in Israel, Pope Francis extended his sympathies to the victims' families and those enduring hours of terror. He called upon people worldwide to join him in prayer for peace in the troubled region.

The renewed conflict erupted unexpectedly when Palestinian Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, firing rockets and carrying out armed incursions. Israel responded with retaliatory airstrikes, and its prime minister declared the nation to be at war. Unconfirmed reports suggest a significant number of casualties on both sides.

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem also issued a statement, lamenting the casualties and tragedies suffered by both Palestinians and Israelis. They warned that such violence would only breed more hatred and division, undermining any hope for stability. The statement called on the international community and religious leaders to work towards de-escalation and the protection of fundamental rights in the region.

The Patriarchate emphasized the importance of maintaining the "Status Quo" concerning the Holy Places in Jerusalem and the urgent need for a comprehensive solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Their statement concluded with a prayer for divine inspiration to guide world leaders in achieving peace and unity, envisioning Jerusalem as a place of prayer for all people.