Pope urges end to 'infernal cycle of mutual violence' in Holy Land

Published: 2004-04-02

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II urged the international community to take necessary steps to end the "infernal cycle of mutual violence" in the Holy Land. At the same time, the pope said the increase in global terrorism underscored the need for reform of the United Nations, in order to strengthen its peacekeeping role around the globe. He made the remarks April 2 in accepting the credentials of the new Lebanese ambassador to the Holy See, Naji Abi Assi. The pope said that in the face of more than half a century of conflict between Israelis and Palestinians the international community "must not flee from its own responsibilities under the pretext of dealing with other pressing situations." He said Palestinians and Israelis must be pressured to undertake a real dialogue and show political courage in negotiating a solution that respects the rights of all sides.

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