The Holy See is following closely the developments of the situation in the Middle East, with special reference to Jerusalem, a city sacred to Christians, Jews and Muslims all over the world. In expressing sorrow at the clashes that have claimed victims in recent days, the Holy Father renews his appeal to the wisdom and prudence of all and raises fervent prayers that the leaders of the nations, in this moment of particular gravity, undertake to avert a new spiral of violence, responding with words and deeds, to the yearning for peace, justice and security of the populations of that tormented land.

Concerns about the prospects for peace in the region have been the subject of various initiatives in recent days, including urgent meetings convened by the Arab League and the Organization for Islamic Cooperation. The Holy See is sensitive to these concerns and, recalling the heartfelt words of Pope Francis, reiterates its well-known position regarding the singular character of the Holy City and the indispensability of respect for the status quo, in accordance with the deliberations of the international community and the repeated requests of the hierarchies of the Churches and of the Christian communities of the Holy Land. At the same time it reiterates its conviction that only a negotiated solution between Israelis and Palestinians can lead to a stable and lasting peace and ensure the peaceful coexistence of the two states within internationally recognized borders.