The Austrian Hospice in Jerusalem, opened in 1863, is the oldest national pilgrimage site in the Holy Land. Located right on Via Dolorosa, it is a little piece of Austria. Rector Markus Stephan Bugnyar reported on his impressions on site on Saturday. The shock is great because, according to him, no one expected such an escalation.
Bugnyar says in a video on platform Actually, something like this doesn’t happen often; he’s only experienced it a few times in the last twenty years. “Missiles in Jerusalem represent a level of escalation that we certainly did not expect here,” is his conclusion. Due to the proximity of the holy places right on their doorstep, citizens actually felt safe here.
Many questions have already been received about how the situation would be assessed. “There are a lot of rumors from all sides,” Bugnyar admits. There are reports of many injuries and injuries. Some are in “very, very critical condition,” the rector said. There are also reports that Israeli civilians have been kidnapped and possibly taken to the Gaza Strip.
The next few hours are crucial
According to the priest, the coming hours will show how the situation develops – whether the conflict is limited to the Gaza Strip or whether more rocket attacks will take place. It is also conceivable that other groups will become involved in the conflict. It is still too early to make predictions. “At this moment I can only ask: think of us, pray for us and let us pray for peace here in the Holy Land,” Bugnyar concluded.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Austrians in Israel must stay indoors
Austrians currently in Israel are strongly advised to follow the instructions of the Israeli authorities, monitor the news and, if they have not already done so, BMEIA– Travel registration takes place on the website of the Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tourists are currently required to stay in the hotel or stay near buildings and protected areas to seek shelter in the event of an alarm. Travel within the country should be avoided at this time.
Click here to complete the BMEIA travel registration.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
