JERUSALEM, Apr 16, 02 (FIDES/CWNews.com) - Heavy gunfire has been reported around the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, according to the Reuters news service.
The sound of gunfire, along with several explosions, was reported after Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon claimed that Palestinian negotiators had backed out of a compromise deal that would have allowed for the peaceful evacuation of the shrine. Palestinian leaders deny that any such agreement under discussion.
The BBC news service also reported "heavy gunfire" at the Church of the Nativity, and cited Palestinian claims that Israeli soldier had unsuccesfully stormed the church. Israeli officials denied that they were attempting an assault on the basilica.
Inside the Church of the Nativity, where they have been barricaded beside Palestinian gunmen for two weeks, Franciscan friars were "not informed" about the process of any negotiations, according to Father David Jaeger, a spokesman for the Franciscion Custody of the Holy Land.
Two elderly friars were transferred out of the basilica on Tuesday afternoon to receive medical care, with the prior agreement of Israeli military officials. The two were suffering from medical conditions that had been aggravated by the long siege inside the church, which now lacks food, water, and electrical power.
Some news reports have indicated that the Franciscan nuns inside the Church of the Nativity were allowed to leave. "That report is not true," said Father Jaeger. "The nuns, who are also suffering, continue to fulfill their duties, side by side with the friars."
Catholic World News Feature
16. april 2002