Benedict's benediction

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BETHLEHEM, the birthplace of Jesus, was of course the highlight of Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the Holy Land. He told Palestinians there on Wednesday that he understood their suffering and upheld the concept of an independent Palestinian state. "The Holy See supports the right of your people to a sovereign Palestinian homeland in the land of your forefathers, secure and at peace with its neighbours, within internationally recognised borders," the pontiff told Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

He also delivered a special message of solidarity to the 1.5 million Palestinians besieged in Gaza even though he did not include Gaza in his itinerary. "In a special way, my heart goes out to the pilgrims from war-torn Gaza," the pope told thousands of Palestinians who packed an open-air mass in Manger Square. "Please be assured of my solidarity with you in the immense work of rebuilding which now lies ahead, and my prayers that the embargo will soon be lifted," he added.