In the midst of the ongoing war and attacks in Palestine generally, and the Gaza Strip specifically, Prof. Dr. Ali Qaradaghi sent a letter of gratitude to Pope Francis of the Vatican, commending his efforts and calls for a ceasefire.

The Text of the Letter:

To His Holiness Pope Francis of the Vatican,

Following warm greetings...

The Holy Quran has alluded to the sympathy of Christians for Muslims (And you will surely find the nearest of them in affection to the believers those who say, "We are Christians"), which is why we see our Christian brothers in Palestine generally, and Jerusalem specifically, demonstrating noble stances alongside their Palestinian brethren.

Therefore, I thank you for your sympathy and allow me to express my full support and backing for your firm humanitarian stance regarding the tragic situation in the Gaza Strip.

Your call for an immediate cessation of hostilities reflects your deep concern and sympathy with the people of Gaza, amidst this bloody and brutal war that the occupying army has been waging for over two months, resulting in the killing of thousands of women and children and the merciless and inhumane destruction of hospitals, mosques, and churches.

Your emphasis on the importance of delivering humanitarian aid to the besieged people of Gaza reflects the spirit of humanity and compassion that characterized our Master Jesus (peace be upon him). It also serves as an example of a moral and humanitarian stance that should be emulated.

I am confident that your call for a ceasefire and the continuation of negotiations will have a positive echo among all and will contribute to alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people and spreading peace across the region.

I, for my part, am ready for a true alliance against bloodshed, to stop oppression, and to curb the madness of armed occupation.

I fully agree with your advocacy for the release of prisoners on both sides, as their human rights and dignity must be respected and protected.

I extend my complete thanks and appreciation for your strong and firm stance, and I assure you of my full support and backing for all your humanitarian and peaceful efforts in this regard.

With respect,

Prof. Dr. Ali Muhiyddin Qaradaghi