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A symbolic journey towards peace
On January 20, Pope Francis expressed his desire to travel to Gaza, a gesture that would have been a strong message of solidarity with the local Catholic community. This desire was revealed by Lucio Brunelli, a former Vatican correspondent for Tg2, who has had a direct relationship with the Pontiff since his time as a cardinal in Buenos Aires.
The visit, according to Brunelli, would have had a significant impact, showing the Pope's closeness to a population tormented by war.
The words of the Pontiff
In an email sent three months ago, Francis wrote: “It would be a good thing” regarding the possibility of visiting Gaza, adding that he would speak to the Secretariat of State to assess the feasibility of the trip. However, his health conditions, already compromised, made any verification impossible. This desire to visit Gaza, despite the difficulties, testifies to the Pope’s determination to want to be close to those who suffer, even in situations of great risk.
A Pope without fear
The recent history of Pope Francis is studded with trips to dangerous places, where war and violence are the order of the day. From his opening of the Jubilee of Mercy in Banguì, Central Africa, to his visit to Baghdad and Mosul, the Pontiff has shown a courageous desire to bring a message of peace and hope. Even if the trip to Gaza did not materialize, the thought of a Pope who is almost ninety years old, sick, but eager to be physically present among the people, is a sign of great humanity and compassion.
The challenges of the visit
Despite Pope Francis's strong desire, political and security difficulties have made the trip to Gaza a complex undertaking. The current situation in the Gaza Strip is characterized by tensions and conflicts, making every visit a potential risk. However, the Pontiff has always shown that he is not afraid to face dangerous situations, as demonstrated by his trips to war zones. His willingness to visit Gaza is a clear sign of his dedication to the cause of peace and social justice.