The vicious circle of violence which tormented Israel and Palestine for years has returned, says Jerusalem Lutheran Bishop Munib Younan, following the shooting attack on a Jewish seminary. Blood will not save the Holy Land, he says.

Palestinians and Jews working for peace and justice have expressed deep foreboding about the future after Israel responded to the appalling recent shootings in Jerusalem with hints of reprisals and a pledge to occupy more territory.

A report from United States intelligence agencies has undermined those close to the White House who have been arguing for unilateral military action against Iran by saying that Tehran halted its nuclear weapons programme in 2003.

Tens of thousands of people from a variety of religious traditions across the United States are preparing to fast on Monday 8 October 2007, as part of an initiative to pray and work for peace in Iraq. Non-religious persons will also join them.