Catholic World News News Feature

Moscow patriarchate joins calls for Mideast peace July 20, 2006

The Russian Orthodox Patriarchate of Moscow has issued a call for world leaders to "combine their efforts to stop bloodshed and to establish just peace in the Middle East."

Peace cannot be attained, the Orthodox patriarchate says, "until all states and all political forces give a rebuff to terrorism, offenses against civilians, and taking of hostages." The statement cites the conclusions of the recent "Moscow summit" meeting of religious leaders, who joined in a condemnation of terrorism.

To date, the Orthodox statement observed, the diplomatic efforts of world leaders have obviously failed to stop "destructive and provocative actions" by the warring parties in the Middle East. The international community should act now to uphold international law, the statement adds. "At present it must stop the escalation of conflict and the violation of the established borders and demarcation lines."

"No one should remain indifferent to what is happening in the Middle East," the Moscow patriarchate says. The statement decries the fresh bloodshed, decrying the loss of life and property, and adding that the violence is of special concern because it imperils the sacred shrines of the Holy Land.