The Romanian Patriarchate has issued a call for prayer and responsibility in light of the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the fourth anniversary of the onset of hostilities in Ukraine.

In a statement released by the Patriarchate’s press service, it was emphasized that the consequences of war manifest in increased civilian casualties, heightened violence, social instability, and the spread of poverty and hunger. The faithful have been urged to pray for a swift restoration of peace and understanding among nations, as well as for Romanian citizens in conflict zones.

Simultaneously, the Romanian Patriarchate's office in the Holy Land is providing assistance to Romanian pilgrims in Israel amid deteriorating security conditions and the temporary closure of airspace. The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has raised its travel advisory level for Israel to "avoid all travel."

Archimandrite Ioan Meiu, a representative of the Romanian Patriarchate, reported that a group of pilgrims from the Archdiocese of Roman and Bacău is currently accommodated at the church representation. They are receiving material and spiritual support while maintaining contact with the embassy and consular services for their eventual return home once flight operations resume. The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised citizens to strictly follow local authorities' guidance and keep abreast of official information.

It is worth noting that on February 28, Israel and the U.S. began a military operation against Iran, prompting a series of Iranian military strikes on Israel and U.S. bases in the Gulf States. On March 1, a rocket struck a residential building in Beit Shemesh, near western Jerusalem, resulting in at least eight fatalities and several dozen injuries. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was also closed due to security threats.

International reactions to the flare-up have been swift, with several European nations urging restraint and an immediate ceasefire, stressing the unacceptable nature of further escalation. The United Nations has called for urgent diplomatic resolution and protection for civilians. The Vatican and representatives from various Christian Churches have issued appeals for prayers for peace and a renewal of dialogue.