Israel outcome of terrorism, expansionism, Capucci says

Bishop of Jerusalem in exile for the Greek-Catholic Church, Helarion Capucci, has asserted that church affairs in Palestine are a concern to the church and its congregation. He added no Israeli premier, including Netanyahu, has the right to interfere in these affairs.

In a statement to the London-based weekly "Editor's News," the bishop added that the reason behind the Israeli attempt to interfere in the church's affairs is simply because of the Christian presence in Jerusalem, the land of the Christ. He described Israel as an aggressive country without tolerance or mercy. "Its way of working is evil and full of hatred," he said, warning against schemes which would Judaize Palestine through eliminating the Christian and Muslim religions from the land of Palestine.

He added that Israel is the outcome of terrorism, extremism and racism. He welcomed the setting up of an international criminal court, adding that crimes to be considered in this court are typically Israel's.

Capucci said "Jerusalem is for the Arabs and will remain so."

Meanwhile, Iranian President Muhammad Khatami has stressed that peace and stability in the Middle East would be only achieved through the restoration of usurped rights to their legitimate owners and warned against the grave consequences of Israel destabilizing the region's security.

During his Sunday meeting with Speaker of the Jordanian Parliament Saad Hayel Sorour, President Khatami called for unifying Islamic countries' efforts against Israeli policy which threatens all sides. He said that the "Zionist entity" was built on killing and usurpation, thereby it will not abide by accepting just peace in the region.