Dario Salvi

A report published by Iran Human Rights (Ihr) and Ensemble Contre la Peine de Mort denounces, 75% more people were hanged in 2022 than in previous years. The aim is to "instil fear and terror" to stop pro-Mahsa Amini demonstrations. Among those executed, drug offenders and minorities, especially Kurds and Beluchis, are on the rise.

The Saint Porphyrios Orthodox Church announces the cancellation on social media. Israel has given no reason for its decision. At least 700 Christians got a travel permit to go to Jerusalem. Recent tensions with Gaza, Lebanon and Syria are the probable cause.

On the return from the New Year holidays, numerous cases occurred in different cities, from Tehran to Urmia. The largest number in Saghez, Mahsa Amini's hometown, where the population has called several strikes against 'organised chemical attacks'. The authorities play down and blame the young people who want to stop classes.

The UN and Oman have brought the government and rebels closer to the negotiating table. Saudis released 13 Houthi prisoners. A ceasefire could be announced before the end of the month. Some major issues must still be dealt with before peace is achieved. Meanwhile, other players, like al-Qaeda, could play troublemakers.

Msgr. Bizzeti celebrated Sunday Mass with Fr. Antuan Ilgıt and some 80 faithful in the grotto of St. Peter's Church. Local Christians, volunteers and dignitaries including the Korean ambassador present. A moment of "comfort" for the earthquake-affected community. Like the women in the Gospel passage, one must not lose "courage."

In his Easter message, Mons. Martinelli describes the local community made up of 'different nations, cultures, languages and rites'. Called to testify that one can be "at the same time different and united". A world marked by wars, divisions, extremism and walls needs Christian 'witness'.

The United Nations Committee on Enforced Disappearances released a report whose findings are based on a visit to Iraq in November 2022. In it, the UN body calls for action to shed light on a practice that is still going on. Iraq, however, lacks specific legislation to deal with the matter. Disappearances occurred under Saddam, during the US occupation and as a result of the rise of the Islamic State group.

The Patriarch of Jerusalem of the Latins recounts the climate of "enthusiasm" among the faithful despite attacks and violence in recent weeks. Tensions fuel desire to participate. Christians in Gaza less than 200 permits. The community has grown "in the sense of belonging and unity". Overnight Israeli police raid on al-Aqsa: 350 Palestinians arrested.

In his Easter message, the Chaldean primate mentions the many "trials" past and present, of discovering vocation and responding with "trust, courage and enthusiasm". The resurrection is the "most important" event, without which "faith has no meaning". The apostles set an example, and the Church is the “living heritage of martyrs”.

Head of the Rossing Centre reflects on the situation in the country with "extremist politicians" with "criminal convictions" that distort the nature of the State. There is a desire to turn the Supreme Court into a 'paper-pusher' for the executive. The reaction of those fighting for liberal values and the future is positive. The haredim seem to have embraced the radical right. For extremists, more freedom to strike, minorities at risk and attacks on Christians 'underestimated'.

Nearly two months after the earthquake, many survivors are still looking for ways to go abroad or other parts of the country. The first shops and businesses reopen in Iskenderun. Yesterday, Palm Sunday celebrations brought together Turkish and foreigner Christians. Young people from Italy are helping amid the rubble. For a university student from Florence, what he saw “made an impression”.

The Custody's vicar general invites prayers for the Holy Land, stressing that peace is the Christian "answer" to wars and tensions. Yesterday Palm Sunday celebrations, hundreds of faithful at the procession. King Abdallah of Jordan assures maximum commitment to "safeguarding" the holy places in Jerusalem.