Rome, Oct 4 (LaPresse) – For the first time since the beginning of the war in Gaza, “news finally speaks of a possible positive new chapter, of the release of Israeli hostages, some Palestinian prisoners, and the cessation of bombings and the military offensive. This is an important and long-awaited first step. Nothing is yet entirely clear and defined, many questions remain unanswered, much remains to be settled, and we must not delude ourselves. But we are pleased that there is at least something new and positive on the horizon.”
So wrote Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, in a letter to the entire diocese after Hamas signaled openness to the U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace proposal.
“We await the moment to rejoice for the families of the hostages, who will finally be able to embrace their loved ones,” the prelate continued. “We hope the same for Palestinian families who will be able to welcome back those returning from prison. Above all, we rejoice for the end of hostilities, which we hope will not be temporary, bringing relief to the inhabitants of Gaza. We also rejoice for all of us, because the possible end of this terrible war, which really now seems close, may finally mark a new beginning for everyone – not only Israelis and Palestinians, but also for the whole world.
Nonetheless, we must keep our feet on the ground. Much still needs to be worked out to give Gaza a peaceful future. The cessation of hostilities is only the first – necessary and indispensable – step in a difficult journey, in a context that remains problematic.”