Patriarch Hazim against violence

Patriarch Ignatius IV Hazim of Antioch and All the East for the Greek Orthodox, Patriarch Mar Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of Antioch an All the East for the Syriac Orthodox, and Patriarch of Antioch and All the East for Roman Catholics, Gregory III Laham, stressed on Thursday their rejection of all forms of foreign interference and violence, calling for lifting the sanctions imposed on Syria. Addressing their sons and citizens in Syria during their meeting at Mar Ephram the Syriac Monastery in SidNaya, the patriarchs called for favoring the national interest over any other interests, adding that all sides should reconcile in the name of God and the homeland. They expressed their support to reform and positive steps of the government, calling for respecting the principles of justice, freedom and dignity. The patriarchs prayed for God to protect Syria and make it secure, peaceful and prosperous. Earlier, the patriarchs reviewed the current events in Syria and expressed their sorrow over the victims, hoping that Syria will overcome the current crisis and will remain the homeland of amity and peace.