Diplomatic recognition is not, of course, the same thing as religious accord. Still, this week's announcement that the Vatican will establish full diplomatic ties with Israel is a historic breakthrough of great spiritual as well as political significance. Consequently, this development deserves to be applauded by all the world.
And what appropriate timing, coming as it does at a season that emphasizes peace and good will toward all people as the children of God.For one thing, the establishment of full diplomatic recognition of the Jewish state signals further progress in the Vatican's continuing efforts to help fight anti-Semitism.
What's more, this move can have other great benefits. The pope exercises an enormous influence for peace throughout the world. Though that influence may not be as great in the Middle East as it is elsewhere, the Vatican may be able to help indirectly by influencing some of the outside powers that have a more immediate impact on the Middle East. And if there is any area that especially needs peace, it is the chronically tense and volatile Mideast.
Israel should find other advantages in having diplomatic representation at the Holy See. The Vatican is said to know more about what is going on in Eastern Europe and Latin America than perhaps even the U.S. State Department.
In any event, the decision on diplomatic relations between Israel and the Vatican culminates two years of intensive negotiations preceded by decades of sporadic efforts.
This breakthrough, then, constitutes a triumph for patient, persistent diplomacy. May it encourage others to be just as diligent in pursuing their own efforts at greater accord.