By Francesca Sabatinelli and Linda Bordoni

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has welcomed with joy the announcement of an agreement that foresees a cessation of attacks in the Gaza Strip and the immediate release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

In a statement released on Thursday after the announcement, the Patriarchate expressed its “ardent hope” that the accord will be “fully and faithfully implemented,” marking “the beginning of the end of this terrible war.”

It highlighted the “absolute urgency” of allowing humanitarian relief and ensuring the “unconditional entry of sufficient aid” for Gaza’s suffering population. “Above all,” the statement said, “we pray that this step may open a path of healing and reconciliation for both Palestinians and Israelis.”

The Patriarchate also commended the work of all those involved in the negotiations, expressing appreciation for “their tireless efforts in making this step possible.”

The first phase of a peace agreement reached between Israel and Hamas, which hopefully paves the way for a possible end to the conflict in Gaza, will reportedly see a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of all remaining hostages by Hamas. The deal is based on the 20-point plan announced by the US President last week.

‘A first step, but an important one’

Speaking to Vatican News, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, described the agreement as “good news” and “a first step, the first phase” on the long road to peace: “We are very happy; it is a relief. Finally, some good news after two years of torment for everyone.”

The Cardinal added that there will be many more steps to take, and there will certainly be obstacles, but he reiterated his relief for this important step.

“We know that the road ahead is still long. There will be many obstacles; it will not be easy. But it was a necessary first step that brings an atmosphere of trust and even a smile to many families, both in Israel and Palestine, and especially in Gaza,” he said.

Looking beyond the ceasefire

When asked about the challenges that may arise in implementing the agreement, the Patriarch acknowledged that difficulties remain: “There will be difficulties regarding what comes next and how it will be managed, but if they [the parties] have overcome this, then if there is the will, they can overcome the others too.”

He urged continued focus on ending the violence and preparing a vision for the future. “It may be too early to speak of peace,”

“There will still be many obstacles,” the Patriarch added. “For now, our duty is to work for the end of military hostilities and begin to elaborate a perspective not only for Gaza, but for the entire Palestinian people. There is still much work to do.”

Supporting the local communities

Reiterating his joy for the result of the negotiations, Cardinal Pizzaballa noted that the Patriarchate will continue its mission of accompanying the local communities and offering concrete assistance

“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 said.

He stressed the importance of rebuilding not only infrastructure but also the human and social fabric wounded by the conflict. “We must help in rebuilding not only the structures, but also the human devastation this war has created.”

A call to prayer

In its statement, the Patriarchate renewed its invitation to participate in the Day of Prayer for Peace proclaimed by Pope Leo XIV for October 11.