Pope Benedict XVI reiterated his previous calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and the resumption of peace talks.
Addressing the Vatican diplomats Thursday, he said that military action cannot resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and reaffirmed his opposition to violence.
The Pope said a cease-fire in the Gaza strip is indispensable for restoring acceptable living conditions to the population. Calling on both sides engaged in the conflict, he urged for "the rejection of hatred, acts of provocation, and the use of arms."
Referring to the approaching elections in Israel, the spiritual head of the Catholic Church said, "It is very important that leaders who can decisively carry forward the peace process and guide their people toward the difficult yet indispensable reconciliation will emerge."
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