Syrian army patrols in the south avoid confronting Israeli forces that frequently raid villages and knock on doors one by one to collect data on residents and search for weapons.

I express my profound closeness to the Palestinian people in Gaza, who continue to live in fear and to survive in unacceptable conditions, forced once again from their own lands.

Before Almighty God, who commanded “Thou shalt not kill,” and throughout human history, every person always has an inviolable dignity, to be respected and upheld. I renew my appeal for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a negotiated diplomatic solution, in full respect of international humanitarian law.

I invite everyone to join my heartfelt prayer that a dawn of peace and justice may soon arise.