In Gaza "a global ceasefire is urgently needed: we are not realizing, or pretending not to see, that we are on the edge of the abyss".
He says it in an exclusive interview with La Stampa Pope Francis.
"Now the conflict is dramatically widening - he adds -. There was the Oslo agreement, which was very clear, with the two-state solution. Until that agreement is applied, true peace remains far away".
The pontiff fears "military escalation" most of all. However, "at the same time I am cultivating a bit of hope at the moment, because confidential meetings are being held to try to reach an agreement".
A truce would already be a good result". With respect to the mediation role of the Church "a crucial figure is Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Patriarch of Jerusalem of the Latins.
He is great.
He is moving well." Instead, on the Ukrainian front, Cardinal Zuppi, "is implementing constant and patient diplomatic work to put conflicts aside and build an atmosphere of reconciliation."
Compared to the criticism received for having granted the blessing to gay couples, "the Gospel is to sanctify everyone - he explains -. Of course, as long as there is good will. And it is necessary to give precise instructions on Christian life (I underline that one does not bless 'union, but the people)".
Those who protest "vehemently" belong to small ideological groups. A special case are the Africans: for them homosexuality is something "bad" from a cultural point of view, they don't tolerate it. But in general, I trust that gradually everyone will calm down in the spirit of the "Fiducia supplicans" declaration.
However, the Pope does not fear a schism: "There have always been small groups in the Church who expressed schismatic reflections... - he observes - we must let them do their thing and pass... and look forward".
The rumors of possible resignation due to his health conditions do not bother him, because "it is a possibility for every pontiff. But I don't think about it now".
If and when "I can't take it anymore, I will eventually start thinking about it. And praying about it".
Reproduction reserved © Copyright ANSA