Rome - Pope Benedict XVI welcomed Sunday Israeli's unilateral ceasefire in the Gaza and called on the parties to take the opportunity to establish a lasting peace.

The pope in his Angelus prayers, said he stood behind all those on both sides of the conflict "who believe that there is room for everyone in the Holy Land."

The ceasefire now provided a glimmer of hope and a chance to "resume dialogue in justice and truth," Benedict said. "This is the only way which may truly open up a peaceful future for the sons and daughters of this beloved region." dpa