A UN conference in New York brought together member states to discuss the peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine and the implementation of the two-state solution. The Holy See's Permanent Observer argued that the two-state solution is the only viable path for lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. The Holy See unequivocally condemned the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas, emphasizing that terrorism is never justified. Archbishop Caccia expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the suffering of the community.
5 months ago
The Holy See, through its Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, has reiterated its firm belief that the Two-State Solution is the only viable path to achieving a just and lasting peace between Israel and Palestine 2. This position was articulated during a three-day High-level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, held at the UN headquarters in New York from July 28-30 2.
Archbishop Caccia unequivocally condemned the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack by Hamas, emphasizing that terrorism can never be justified 2. While acknowledging the right to self-defense, he stressed that such actions must adhere to the traditional limits of necessity and proportionality 2.
The Holy See expressed profound concern over the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, highlighting the immense human suffering, including the killing of children and the destruction of homes, hospitals, and places of worship 2. The Archbishop noted the vital role Christians have historically played in the region as a moderating and stabilizing presence 2.
In response to the widespread displacement, collapse of services, and increasing hunger, the Holy See urgently called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages, and the restitution of the bodies of the deceased 2. It also demanded the protection of all Palestinian civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance 2.
The Holy See maintains that a Two-State Solution, based on secure and internationally recognized borders, is the sole equitable path to peace 2. It has demonstrated concrete steps towards this vision by recognizing the State of Israel in 1993 and the State of Palestine in 2015 2. The Holy See remains committed to the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and supports their legitimate aspirations for freedom, security, and dignity within an independent and sovereign state 2.
Given Jerusalem's sacred significance to Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, Archbishop Caccia emphasized the need for an internationally recognized special status for the city 2. This status should transcend political divisions, preserve Jerusalem's unique identity, and protect the rights and dignity of all residents and believers 2. It also aims to ensure the equality of religious institutions and communities, safeguard the city's sacred character and heritage, protect Holy Places, and guarantee unrestricted access and freedom of worship 2. The Holy See also reiterated the importance of preserving the "Status Quo" where applicable and ensuring no harassment in the city 2.
The Permanent Observer concluded by recalling Pope Francis's Angelus message from July 20, which called for an immediate end to the "barbarity of war" and a peaceful resolution to the conflict 2. The Pope's appeal urged the international community to uphold humanitarian law, protect civilians, and respect prohibitions against collective punishment, indiscriminate force, and forced displacement 2.
What is the Church's teaching on peace?
The Catholic Church teaches that peace is not merely the absence of war or a balance of power between adversaries, but rather "the tranquility of order" . It is a universal value and duty rooted in God, who is the source of being, truth, and good . Peace is fundamentally linked to justice and love, and it must be ceaselessly built up .
In summary, the Church's teaching on peace is comprehensive, viewing it as a dynamic state of "tranquility of order" that is deeply intertwined with justice, love, and the integral development of every human person and society. It is a divine gift that requires constant human effort and commitment to truth, freedom, and solidarity .