A strong appeal for the defense of rights and coexistence in the Holy Land came from Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, president of the Italian Episcopal Conference (Cei), speaking at the Rimini Meeting. His remarks focused in particular on the situation unfolding in the West Bank.
What is happening in the Palestinian territory “is unacceptable”, Zuppi said on the sidelines of the event. “Coexistence and rights must be defended — it is unthinkable that everyone’s rights, particularly those of Arabs, are being trampled and humiliated.” The cardinal also recalled ongoing humanitarian efforts: “We continue providing aid. We must see what can be done, depending on the situation, in cooperation with the Patriarchate.”
The theme of coexistence among peoples and communities had also been addressed by Zuppi during the Mass celebrated at the fairgrounds. In his homily, the Cei president warned against the temptation to seek security by retreating into an “enclave”, contrasting this mindset with the Gospel’s message of openness and communion.
Hence his call to “fight enmity with friendship”, echoing the words spoken by Pope Leo XIV during his visit to the Meeting: “Go out and meet everyone.” For Zuppi, in an age marked by the “insolent arrogance of power”, the answer must be a community capable of opening up and building bonds rather than new divisions.
