In a notable debut, Pope Leo XIV addressed a crowd of approximately 40,000 in St. Peter's Square, bringing attention to the escalating humanitarian disaster in Gaza. He described the current situation as “heart-rending,” particularly for children, the elderly, and sick individuals suffering from a lack of food and resources.
The pope made his appeal at a time when global leaders from Britain, Canada, and France are also urging the Israeli government to facilitate more humanitarian aid to the region, especially after tensions escalated following a breakdown of a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in March.
Reflecting on this critical humanitarian issue, Leo stated, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed.” His remarks were met with a warm response from the attendees, who applauded his strong advocacy for peace.
Since his election on May 8, Pope Leo XIV has been vocal in calling for immediate actions to address this crisis. Just three days post-election, he urged for an end to hostilities in Gaza and specifically called on Hamas to release hostages.
The urgency in his message resonates widely as the prolonged conflict has led to suffering for countless civilians. As part of his papacy's focus on humanitarian concerns, Leo has also mentioned the war in Ukraine, showing a continued commitment to advocating for those affected by global conflicts.
With a tradition of engaging with the faithful through these general audiences, the pope concluded his address, reiterating the importance of solidarity and support for those in desperate need, particularly amidst an ongoing crisis that weighs heavily on many vulnerable populations.
The pope made his appeal at a time when global leaders from Britain, Canada, and France are also urging the Israeli government to facilitate more humanitarian aid to the region, especially after tensions escalated following a breakdown of a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in March.
Reflecting on this critical humanitarian issue, Leo stated, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed.” His remarks were met with a warm response from the attendees, who applauded his strong advocacy for peace.
Since his election on May 8, Pope Leo XIV has been vocal in calling for immediate actions to address this crisis. Just three days post-election, he urged for an end to hostilities in Gaza and specifically called on Hamas to release hostages.
The urgency in his message resonates widely as the prolonged conflict has led to suffering for countless civilians. As part of his papacy's focus on humanitarian concerns, Leo has also mentioned the war in Ukraine, showing a continued commitment to advocating for those affected by global conflicts.
With a tradition of engaging with the faithful through these general audiences, the pope concluded his address, reiterating the importance of solidarity and support for those in desperate need, particularly amidst an ongoing crisis that weighs heavily on many vulnerable populations.
