Middle East News
Pope Benedict implores end to Gaza bloodshed
Dec 28, 2008, 10:41 GMT
Vatican City - Pope Benedict XVI condemned Sunday the violence in the Gaza Strip, saying he 'felt pain' for the dead and the wounded.
'I implore an end to this violence, which must be condemned in all its manifestations,' Benedict told the faithful gathered in St Peter's Square for the Sunday Angelus.
Calling for an immediate truce, Benedict said he appealed for 'a sign of humanity and wisdom from those responsible for the situation.'
'I ask the international community to make an all out effort to help the Israelis and the Palestinians exit this blind alley' of violence.
'The birthplace of Jesus cannot continue to bear witness to never-ending bloodshed,' the pontiff said.
Pope Benedict XVI, who in his Christmas Day message appealed for peace between Israelis and Palestinians, is expected to visit the Holy Land in May 2009, according to recent remarks by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Fouad Twal.
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