"Washing the feet of the refugees, Pope Francis is asking for respect for each one of them."

While the case brings together issues of religious freedom and reproductive rights, it boils down to a more narrow dissection of government regulations, exemptions and accommodations.

"We must stay faithful to our message of peace and go on promoting a discourse which appeals for acceptance, brotherhood and coexistence," he said.

"God willing, within few hours we will enter and secure the town," one officer told Syrian TV.

Likes millions of refugees around the world, Hassan packed up his family to flee violence and to try to find a safe place where his children could grow and thrive.

Two plaintiffs appealed the case in the court of public opinion and hinted that a political solution might be their ultimate redress.