Francis reiterated that “war is always and only a defeat for all. The only ones who benefit from it are the weapons manufacturers and dealers.”
He referred to the armed conflicts that are currently taking place in the world with serious consequences. (Photo: PL).
“A global ceasefire is urgently needed. “We are not aware or pretend not to see that we are on the edge of the abyss,” Pope Francis said in statements published Jan. 29 by the newspaper La Stampa.
In an interview with this media outlet, the Pope said: “I never tire of repeating my appeal, which is directed especially to those who bear political responsibility.” “Stop immediately the bombs and rockets, end hostile attitudes.”
Francis reiterated that “war is always and only a defeat for all. The only ones who benefit from it are the weapons manufacturers and dealers.”
He referred to the war conflicts currently taking place in the world, particularly in Ukraine between that country and Russia, as well as the war in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine, both of which have serious consequences.
Regarding the latter, he noted that he fears a military escalation as it is now “expanding dramatically” and said that “this could further exacerbate the tensions and violence that are already shaping the planet.”
He expressed that “at this moment I am cultivating a little bit of hope at the same time because confidential meetings are being held to try to reach an agreement” and he opined that “a ceasefire would be a good outcome.”
However, if the Oslo agreement with the two-state solution is not implemented, “true peace will continue to be a long way off,” he assured.
Regarding the role played by the Catholic Church in trying to stop this war, in which some 26,000 Palestinians have already died as a result of the Israeli bombing of the Gaza Strip, he pointed out that “a crucial figure is the Patriarch Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa is “from Jerusalem” who “resolutely tries to mediate.”
Regarding the Vatican's efforts in the context of the conflict in Ukraine, he recalled that “I have entrusted the task of this complicated and delicate mission to Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference”, who, in his opinion, “well and “competent” is doing diplomatic work to “build a climate of reconciliation”.
When asked about the pillars on which he believes world peace can be built, the Pope emphasized: “Dialogue, dialogue, dialogue! And then the search for the spirit of solidarity and human brotherhood,” because “we can no longer do it.” Kill each other among brothers and sisters! Makes no sense!”
