Dario Salvi

Overnight in New York, Iranian ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi held a brief interview with Kelly Craft. The US diplomat saddened by the death of a two-year-old girl due to the lack of medicine. A problem linked to US sanctions on the ayatollahs' nuclear power.

As the amount of aid drops, hardships increase. Unemployment and poverty are compounded by the country’s political crisis and new refugees caused by Turkey’s offensive in Syria. Clergyman expresses closeness to protesters who are “in the streets for us too, for a united country". Donations are “a sign of hope and closeness".

The Patriarch to AsiaNews: We must think "of the safety of the faithful", which could be "targeted". The unanimous decision at the end of a meeting with the priests, also shared by the faithful. Groups "that do not want change" and "attack those who demonstrate in the streets".

In the first quarter of the year, approximately 390 million shekels were allocated for the West Bank alone. It is the highest figure of the last decade. In 2018 the total sum was 1.8 billion. Growth in recent years has reached 50%. Peace Now: the government finances the colonies "to the detriment of the growth" of the entire country.

In his message, the cardinal recalls the wave of violence linked to the repression of anti-government protests. Since 2003 the dream of a strong and peaceful country "has never been realized". The invitation to bishops and priests: "Christians and Muslims" together in solidarity, on a "spiritual and humanitarian" path.

Syria’s parliament approved contracts signed in early 2019 with Russia’s Mercury LLC and Velada LLC. Syria’s oil minister says his country’s strategy is to boost ties with "friendly nations", i.e. Russia and Iran. At stake are disputed areas in north-eastern Syria held by the US with Kurdish help.

For the third consecutive night there were clashes, at least 66 wounded. Hezbollah and Amal supporters tried to break into the square and target the young demonstrators. Violence also in the south, in the port city of Saida. President Aoun postpones parliamentary consultations, Hariri loses support from the main Christian party.

Over the weekend the apostolic administrator carried out an "intense" three-day pastoral visit. In spite of the "isolation fatigue", the faithful create new families, build centers and work activities, work for the future. Still uncertainty about exit permits, a "political issue".

Second night of clashes between protesters and security forces. At least 46 injured, another 14 people hospitalized. The protesters denounce a disproportionate use of force; elements infiltrated among the crowd to "de-legitimize" the popular initiative. The Ministry of Interior announces the opening of an investigation. In the streets less army and more brigades and militias to manage the protest.

In a video, the Chaldean primate praises the document signed by the Pope and the Grand Imam of al-Azhar at a conference sponsored by the French Senate. In Iraq, protesters make unprecedented demands. Confessional conflicts are a "scandal". Constitution, citizenship and infrastructure are needed to revive the country.

The faithful will be able to go abroad, but not visit the holy places and holy cities in Israel and the West Bank. Military sources speak of "security issues" behind the decision. The disappointment of the Christians of the Strip. Christian leaders announce an appeal. Israeli activist: strengthening of the "separation" policy between the two Palestinian areas.

Hundreds of businesses are ready to give money to workers to "maintain their livelihood". Unemployment and wage cuts are rising. The Paris international support group calls for an "effective and credible" government. In Beirut Amal supporters and police clash.