Jerusalem: The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has welcomed with relief and optimism the recent agreement between Israel and Hamas, which foresees a cessation of attacks in the Gaza Strip and the immediate release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. In a statement issued Thursday, the Patriarchate expressed its “ardent hope” that the accord will be “fully and faithfully implemented,” marking what it called “the beginning of the end of this terrible war.”
Highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, the Patriarchate emphasized the importance of ensuring “unconditional entry of sufficient aid” for Gaza’s civilian population, whose suffering has intensified over years of conflict. “Above all,” the statement read, “we pray that this step may open a path of healing and reconciliation for both Palestinians and Israelis.” The Patriarchate also expressed gratitude to all those involved in facilitating the agreement, praising their tireless efforts in bringing about this initial breakthrough.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, described the agreement as a necessary first step on a long journey toward peace. Speaking to Vatican News, he said: “We are very happy; it is a relief. Finally, some good news after two years of torment for everyone.” While acknowledging that further challenges lie ahead, he stressed that the accord has already instilled an atmosphere of trust and hope, bringing relief to many families in Israel, Palestine, and particularly Gaza.
The first phase of the agreement reportedly includes a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, following a 20-point plan announced by the US President last week. Cardinal Pizzaballa cautioned that while this represents progress, “the road ahead is still long. There will be many obstacles; it will not be easy. But if the parties have overcome this first step, with goodwill, they can overcome the others too.”
Looking beyond the immediate ceasefire, the Patriarch emphasized the need for continued efforts to end violence and to envision a future for the region. “It may be too early to speak of peace,” he said. “There is still much work to do, not only to end hostilities but to rebuild a perspective for the entire Palestinian people.”
Cardinal Pizzaballa reaffirmed the Patriarchate’s commitment to supporting local communities through humanitarian and pastoral initiatives. “Nothing more than what we are already doing: supporting our community, helping, and facilitating everything that can bring greater serenity to the people of Gaza, to the Palestinians and also to the Israelis,” he stated. He stressed that reconstruction must address both infrastructure and the human and social fabric devastated by the conflict, noting: “We must help in rebuilding not only the structures, but also the human devastation this war has created.”
In its statement, the Latin Patriarchate also renewed its invitation to participate in the Day of Prayer for Peace, proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV for October 11, calling on faithful worldwide to join in prayers for an end to suffering and the establishment of lasting reconciliation.