Vatican envoy in Beirut urges Middle East to embrace peace plans

Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, urged for peace in the Middle East during a press conference in Beirut, highlighting the critical situation in the region, including Lebanon. Parolin called for the acceptance of peace proposals to halt the fighting, secure the release of hostages in Gaza, and ensure unhindered aid to Palestinians.

Emphasizing that the region does not need more war, he referenced the ongoing Gaza conflict that began with Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages. Israel’s subsequent retaliation has caused numerous civilian deaths. Parolin’s visit included meetings with political and religious leaders, expressing the Vatican’s serious concern over Lebanon’s prolonged presidential vacancy, which has persisted since October 2022 due to political deadlock. He urged Lebanese political factions to resolve the issue swiftly, stressing the importance of electing a head of state.

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati echoed the call for peace, advocating against tying Lebanon’s stability to complex, ongoing conflicts. The situation at the Lebanon-Israel border remains tense, with frequent exchanges of fire since October 7, resulting in casualties on both sides.