Indeed, with a new president on the scene, the fate of this decision was far from certain. Public opinion started worrying when president Donald Trump decided to block progress on the ceasefire, and received Prime Minister Netanyahu mentioning project ideas such as « Gaza 2025, what’s next? ». This project would turn the Gaza war zone into the new « Côte d’Azur » and allow Americans to settle there.
For more information on this projet : ALTERNATIVE ARAB PLAN FOR GAZA: AN AMBITIOUS RECONSTRUCTION
On Easter Monday, Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88. He had appeared on Easter eve on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for his Easter address. In his speech, he denounced the catastrophic and despicable humanitarian situation in Gaza. He also mentioned the « climate of anti-Semitism » that is growing around the world. Thus, he called for the release of hostages on both sides, and for a ceasefire.
He also called for international aid to bring the starving population a « future of peace ». He ended this point by saying « no peace is possible where there is no religious freedom or freedom of thought and expression ».
Even if no progress has been made in the conflict in recent months, this is still a voice of support for the cause. The following day, the Pope succumbed, his words testifying to his faith and the humanitarian side that the pope had embodied.
