VATICAN CITY – In a powerful and deeply emotional address, newly elected Pope Leo XIV has issued an impassioned call for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, lamenting the devastating toll on innocent lives, particularly children. Speaking to a crowd in Vatican City, the pontiff urged both Israel and Hamas to halt the fighting and prioritize human dignity.
“In the Gaza Strip, the intense cries are reaching Heaven more and more from mothers and fathers who hold tightly to the bodies of their dead children,” Pope Leo XIV stated, underscoring the horrific human cost of the ongoing conflict. He further appealed to all parties to liberate hostages and rigorously adhere to international humanitarian law. “To those responsible, I renew my appeal: stop the fighting,” he urged.
The Pope’s heartfelt plea comes amidst a grim backdrop of escalating violence and stalled peace efforts. Just a day prior, reports emerged of 50 people being injured in Gaza while attempting to receive food aid, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis. This appeal also follows the latest breakdown in truce talks between Israel and Hamas, with Israel vowing to continue its offensive until “full control” of the Palestinian territory is achieved.
Pope Leo XIV reiterated his “closeness and prayers for all the victims, especially children and families,” as he renewed his appeal “to stop the war and to support every initiative for dialogue and peace.”
Beyond the Middle East, Pope Leo XIV, who ascended to lead the Catholic Church after the passing of Pope Francis, also extended his appeal for an end to the protracted conflict in Ukraine. As the war between Russia and Ukraine enters its fourth year with intensified attacks and no discernible progress on ceasefire talks, the Pope’s universal call for peace resonates across global hotspots, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and an end to human suffering.
