VATICAN CITY — In a heartfelt plea, Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, urging both Israel and Hamas to uphold international humanitarian laws.
Speaking during his weekly audience at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff lamented the devastating impact on civilians, especially children. “The cries of mothers and fathers holding their lifeless children are rising to Heaven,” he said, demanding a halt to the bloodshed and the release of all hostages.
Pope Leo, who took over from the late Pope Francis earlier this month, also renewed calls for peace in Ukraine, condemning the recent spike in attacks targeting civilians and infrastructure.
His appeals come amid worsening conditions in Gaza following an 11-week Israeli blockade, which has left families scrambling for food and safety. Over 54,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed since Israel’s military campaign began in retaliation for the October 2023 Hamas attack.
The pontiff emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian access and dialogue to end the suffering on both fronts.