From KCRW in Santa Monica and PRI, Public Radio International, this is To the Point.

Praying for peace in a hostile climate.

Hello again, I'm Armin Alney, and this is To the Point from Public Radio International.

A daily look at the issues Americans care about most.

Leaders of Israel and the Palestinians will join Pope Francis in the Vatican this Sunday to pray for peace in the Middle East.

The Pope from Argentina is injecting new perspective into the heart of diplomacy at a time of increasing tension.

Yesterday, Israel announced more settlements in the West Bank in response to recent unity between the Palestinian Authority and its terrorist rival Hamas.

We'll hear how all these developments reflect changes in the region are Israel and the Obama administration further apart than ever.

Today's talking point, can a horse of humble California beginnings be the next winner of the Triple Crown?

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Hello again, Warren Al-Narney, back with To the Point.

As tensions increase between Israel and the Palestinians, Pope Francis has invited leaders from both sides to pray for peace in the Vatican on Sunday.

Can the first Pope from outside of Europe make a difference?

What's the role of the U.S. in the changing region?

Later on, To the Point, on our talking point, California Chrome may win New York's Belmont

stakes tomorrow and with it the first triple crown since 1978.

Will that bring new status to the state of California, which is lightly regarded by the

sport of kings?

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