Palestinian rivalry condemned

JERUSALEM -- The heads of the leading Christian churches in the Holy Land say they are deeply concerned by the escalation of violence between two rival Palestinian factions, Hamas and Fatah, who are vying for power.

Thirteen patriarchs and bishops representing the Jerusalem-based Catholic, Orthodox, Lutheran and Anglican communities released a joint statement in early January voicing "anxiety for all our people--Christian and Muslim alike--at the deteriorating relations between Fatah and Hamas leaders and the armed forces."

Although church leaders often denounce violence in this troubled region, they have until now refrained from explicitly naming specific armed Palestinian factions as the aggressors.

Comprising just 2 percent of the population, Palestinian Christians are well aware of their status as a minority and have traditionally steered clear of political activities and statements.

"It would appear that all kinds of mediation and attempts at reconciliation have so far failed, resulting in a deadlock in the situation," the religious leaders noted. They urged all parties to "consider carefully the various issues at stake."

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