In recent times, whenever we’ve discussed the Holy Land and the wider Middle East North Africa region, we’ve ended up discussing turmoil, violence and political tension. Frequently we ask the question “Where is the hope?”.

But light can be found in the darkness. Perhaps it’s the canonisation of two Palestinian nuns – Marie Alphonsine Ghattas and Mariam Baouardy? Maybe the Holy See’s recognition, on 13 May, of the State of Palestine? Is it the bold decision of Israel’s top court to block the extension of the separation wall through the Cremisan valley?

In this ‘Middle East Analysis’ podcast special we welcome into the studio His Beatitude Fouad Twal – the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem – to discuss these historic events with our regular guest Dr Harry Hagopian.