Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem believes that the future of the Holy Land can only be determined through peaceful negotiations. He expressed this sentiment during a meeting with Jeffrey Pillay, the Secretary-General of the World Council of Churches.

According to the press service of the Jerusalem Patriarchate, on February 17, Patriarch Theophilos welcomed a delegation from the Council of Churches at his residence. The meeting included the heads of various churches in Jerusalem, such as Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem; Father Francesco Patton, the Custos of the Holy Land; Archbishop Hosam Naum, the head of the Episcopal Church in Jerusalem, along with representatives of the Armenian Patriarchate and the Coptic Church in Jerusalem.

Patriarch Theophilos addressed the head of the World Council of Churches with a message on behalf of all the heads of the Churches in Jerusalem.

"We as the Heads of Churches in the Holy Land continue to pray and call for an end to the war so that the humanitarian crisis may be brought to an end, displaced populations may return to their homes, and essential help be brought to all innocent victims caught up in this conflict who are without the basic necessities of life," said Patriarch Theophilos.

"The Heads of the Churches remain firm in our opposition to the escalation of violence. We are convinced, as is the World Council of Churches, that it is in upholding and promoting the fundamental values of the Gospel that a way forward will be found, and we invite our fellow Christians, as well as all people of good will around, to join us in this sacred mission. For it is written, Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Mt 5:9)," — emphasized the Patriarch of Jerusalem.

Dr. Jeffrey Pillay expressed support for Patriarch Theophilos and the entire Jerusalem Church. He also expressed readiness to appeal to the millions of Christians who are members of the Council worldwide, urging them to strengthen their prayers and support for the Churches and people in the Holy Land, as well as for peace and an end to the conflict between Israel and Palestine.