VATICAN, December 25, 2017 (WAFA) - Pope Francis called for peace for Jerusalem and for all the holy land in his traditional Christmas Urbi et Orbi speech, which in Latin means "To the city and world", in Saint Peter‘s Square, in Vatican city.
According to Agence-France Presse (AFP), the Pope expressed hope that the “will to resume dialogue may prevail between the [Palestinian-Israeli] parties and that a negotiated solution can finally be reached, one that would allow the peaceful coexistence of two States within mutually agreed and internationally recognized borders.”
“May the Lord also sustain the efforts of all those in the international community inspired by goodwill to help that afflicted land to find, despite grave obstacles, the harmony, justice and security that it has long awaited,” said the Pope.
The pope previously called for the status quo of Jerusalem to be respected and for “wisdom and prudence” to prevail to avoid further conflict.
This call came ahead of US President Donald Trump’s expected decision on December 6th, recognizing Jerusalem as capital of Israel.
Francis said he had “deep worry” about recent developments, and declared Jerusalem a unique and sacred place for Christians, Jews and Muslims that has a “special vocation for peace.”
He appealed “that everyone respects the status quo of the city” according to U.N. resolutions.
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