The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem expresses joy for the news of an agreement between Israel and Hamas describing it as a necessary first step that brings an atmosphere of trust and hope to the people of the region. By Francesca Sabatinelli and Linda Bordoni The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has …

As humanitarian aid is finally granted access to the Gaza Strip, Pope Leo XIV instructs the Office of Papal Charities to send medicines for the youngest victims of the two-year conflict. Meanwhile, food aid distributions continue in Ukraine. By Benedetta Capelli In the days when the “spark of hope” — …

The final 20 living hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have returned to Israel after more than two years in captivity. By Nathan Morley The final 20 living hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have returned to Israel after more than two years in captivity. The hostages were abducted during …

By Sanad Sahelia ACI MENA, Oct 9, 2025 / 11:55 am The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has welcomed the announcement of an agreement to halt attacks in the Gaza Strip and to ensure the immediate release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners — describing it as a first step “that may …

By Courtney Mares Vatican City, Sep 18, 2025 / 10:08 am Pope Leo XIV, in his first interview since his election, signaled he may be open to future changes to the Vatican’s controversial deal with China, saying that he is in dialogue with persecuted Chinese Catholics as he weighs the future of …

At the conclusion of his weekly General Audience, Pope Leo XIV expresses his “deepest” sympathy for the people of Gaza. He renews his appeal for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, a diplomatic solution to the crisis, and full respect for international humanitarian law. By Christopher Wells “I express my …

During a visit to Italy, Franciscan friar Ibrahim Faltas illustrates the terrible situation the people of the Holy Land region are living in, and warns that if things continue as they are, “there will truly be no Christians left.” By Kielce Gussie “The situation in Gaza is terrible”, Fr. Ibrahim …

By Andrea Tornielli The Israeli–Palestinian conflict has long been a source of debate and polarization. The war now raging in Gaza, and the controversies surrounding it, have made this phenomenon even more extreme, if that were possible. Intense—at times extreme—polarizations run through much of civil society in many countries around …

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, speaking in Naples at the opening of the 75th National Liturgical Week, expresses his deep concern over the Israeli bombing of Gaza, saying it makes “no sense” and warning of the worsening humanitarian crisis. By Vatican News “We are appalled by what is happening in Gaza, despite …

Ahead of the Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace on August 22, called by Pope Leo XIV, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem highlights the power of prayer to open people to trust and seek to do good, even in the Holy Land, where finding common ground is nearly impossible. …