Currently, the official Vatican position is that it neither confirms nor denies possession of Herodian Temple objects such as the golden Menorah, sacred tables, altars, and priestly garments.
The hostages, captured by Hamas on October 7th, 2023, are reported to be in dire conditions, with fears of torture and urgent medical needs.
The pontiff renewed his calls for a ceasefire and for the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its Oct. 7 attack.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, said the Holy See remains firmly convinced that a two-state solution is the only way to guarantee lasting peace in the region.
The death toll in Israel from Hamas' attack has reached 1,300, with more than 3,000 people injured, as hostages remain trapped in Gaza.
Pope Francis called for talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan
Proponents have welcomed the consultations as an opportunity to change the Church's power dynamics and give a greater voice to lay Catholics, including women, and marginalized groups.
The appointment of Archbishop Pizzaballa as a cardinal underlines the Vatican's desire to play a more active role in the ongoing diplomatic discussions concerning Jerusalem.
A number of countries, including the United States, face internal political pressure to stop or curtail spending on weapons sent to Ukraine.
Francis spoke out in favor of welcoming migrants, in a long speech that concluded a Church conference on Mediterranean issues.
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