Jerusalem: A landmark peace agreement brokered by the Trump administration between Israel and Hamas has sparked cautious optimism across Gaza, Israel, and Catholic communities in the United States. The agreement, announced on October 9, marks the first phase of a broader 20-point plan aimed at ending hostilities, securing the release of hostages, and laying the groundwork for long-term stability in the region.
In Gaza, news of the accord was met with relief and guarded hope. Farid Jabran, public and government affairs adviser for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, described the agreement as “a joy for the entire population of Gaza, for the families of the hostages, and for our parish, our little parish there in Gaza.” He emphasized that while parishioners are pleased to hear fewer bombings, an air of anticipation remains as the community awaits the release of hostages and further developments.
Jabran also revealed that Latin Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa had directly contacted Father Gabriel Romanelli, pastor of Gaza’s sole Catholic church. The patriarchate is planning major humanitarian initiatives, including the construction of a new hospital in southern Gaza and the establishment of field hospitals, educational programs, and other services that will serve both Christian and Muslim communities. These efforts will be supported by the Italian Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Latin Patriarchate.
Former Israeli ambassador to the U.S., Daniel Ayalon, discussed the operational aspects of the peace deal, noting that both Israel and Hamas had signed the first phase. He cautioned that while a ceasefire is in effect, Israel remains vigilant against potential provocations from Hamas. “We have enough experience with Hamas that even though they agree on a ceasefire, they continue their aggression,” Ayalon told EWTN News Nightly.
According to Ayalon, the initial phase will involve the release of Palestinian prisoners, withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to agreed positions, and the return of Gazans to their homes. He noted that the disarmament of Hamas and dismantling of its extensive tunnel network will be a complex process likely to extend over several months. Ayalon expressed hope that these measures will pave the way for broader normalization between Israel and Arab nations, and eventually create conditions for peaceful coexistence under the Palestinian Authority, which would replace Hamas governance in Gaza.
In the U.S., Catholic organizations are emphasizing faith-driven support rather than political commentary. Simone Rizkallah, director of the Philos Catholic initiative, urged Catholics to commemorate the October 7 anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attacks with acts of mourning and solidarity. “To stand with our Jewish brothers and sisters today is not a political act… This is about faith and the culture that faith gives birth to,” Rizkallah said, noting over 1,200 Israelis and 22 Americans were killed in the attacks, with 251 taken hostage.
Rizkallah encouraged Catholics to engage in concrete gestures of solidarity, such as visiting local synagogues, supporting Jewish neighbors, or leaving white roses as symbols of Christian resistance to hatred, inspired by the White Rose movement against Nazi Germany. The Philos Catholic project will also host an event commemorating the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C., available both in person and virtually.
As the first phase unfolds, Gazans and Israelis alike are cautiously optimistic that years of hostilities may finally give way to stability. Catholic voices, both in the Holy Land and in the diaspora, continue to emphasize humanitarian and spiritual engagement as essential complements to political agreements. While the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges, the historic deal represents a critical step toward reconciliation, reconstruction, and coexistence in a region long defined by conflict.