In a moving display of humanitarian concern, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, has expressed his willingness to exchange himself for the hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza.

During an online conference with journalists, Cardinal Pizzaballa remarked, “If this can lead to freedom and bring those children back home, no problem. On my part, absolute willingness.”

Though he underscored the immediate priority of securing the hostages’ release, Pizzaballa also indicated the challenges of negotiating with Hamas. He said “it’s not possible to talk to Hamas.”

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with many displaced from their homes due to the conflict. An estimated 1,000 Christians, having lost their residences, now seek shelter in Church buildings.

As the Cardinal pointed out, these individuals are reluctant to move as “many die in transfers,” and safer locations are currently overflowing.

The Vatican has expressed its commitment to facilitating de-escalation and mediation in the region. They are coordinating with various humanitarian agencies to establish a corridor for essential supplies into Gaza.

Pope Francis, echoing the sentiment of urgency and care, also recently urged for respect of humanitarian law in Gaza, emphasizing the necessity of providing aid to its population.

Pray for peace!

🙏

Photo credit: CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEED via Flickr
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