Middle East

A gunman opened fire with a Kalashnikov at Reina nightclub on the Bosphorus. He then escaped without leaving a trace. No official claims, but suspicions focus on the Islamic state. The condolences and prayers by Pope Francis. A bloody 2016 in Turkey.

At the Angelus Pope Francis prays for the 39 dead and 69 wounded in the terrorist attack on the Reina nightclub in Istanbul. People of good will united against terrorism. Saying "no" to "hatred and violence and 'yes' to fraternity and reconciliation." "This year will be good to the extent that each of us, with God's help, tries to do good every day." A prayer to the Mother of God for the new year.

Mass of the Solemnity of Mary Mother of God and the World Day of Peace, Pope Francis indicates the "motherhood of Mary," as an antidote to the "spiritual orphan hood" that destroys our sense of belonging to a family, to a people. "Mothers are the strongest antidote to our individualistic and selfish tendencies, against our closures and apathy". "That look that frees us from orphan hood ... reminds us that we are brothers, that I belong to you, you belong to me, that we are of the same flesh."

"As another year draws to a close, we pause before the crib, to thank all the signs of divine generosity in our lives and in our history." " Looking at the manger means recognizing that the times ahead call for bold and hope-filled initiatives, as well as the renunciation of vain self-promotion and endless concern with appearances". We live in a culture that "idolizes youth trying to make it eternal," but which "condemns our young people to have no place in society".

The apostolic nuncio speaks of cautious optimism for the ceasefire reached by government and rebels, with the mediation of Russia and Turkey. The "immediate objective" is to promote "the distribution of humanitarian aid” and to "relaunch the negotiations". "Greater participation" of Christians in the celebrations for Christmas, a national holiday in Syria.

Over 500 children have attended a show dedicated to the "birth of peace". In Damascus, there is no water and electricity; but in the dark you can see the "light" that illuminates the world. Toys, scarves, gloves and wool socks distributed to children most in need. A young actor says: Peace is not only a miracle but "we are the first who must build it".

The cease-fire came into force at midnight and seems to hold over much of the territory. Outbreaks of violence in Idlib and in the eastern part of Damascus. Analysts and experts talk of "serious" truce with a greater chance of success than in the past. Washington excluded from the negotiating table.

The bodies of 21 people killed in east Aleppo are found, including five children and five women. Charges and counter-charges are made with respect to violence, human rights violations and summary executions of civilians. Moscow and Damascus slam Western governments for covering massacres perpetrated by jihadists and insurgents.

The trade balance registered a positive gain of US$ 55 million. Imports stand at US$ 31.5 billion, up 4.3 per cent, especially in natural gas, LPG and light industrial oil. Its main partner are China, UAE, and Turkey. Iran’s economic and trade partnership with Germany is also growing.

"Faith is also struggling with God, showing Him our bitterness, no frills, 'I'm angry with God and I told Him this this and this', 'but He is Father, go in peace'. And hope is also not being afraid to see reality for what it is and accept its contradictions".

Visits postponed and work with the embassies called off. Measure "temporary". Ambassadors recalled from New Zealand and Senegal. Summit with British Prime Minister in Davos questioned. Israel ignores vote and pushes ahead with the construction of 618 new settlements in East Jerusalem.

For the apostolic vicar, it is important to confirm that the Indian Salesian is "still alive", although under "pressures" from the kidnappers. The prelate noted that work is underway “on several fronts” for his release. He appeals not to make or spread false or unconfirmed statements, and calls for prayers for the priest’s health.