In his first general audience, Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt plea for humanitarian support in Gaza amid increasing struggles faced by civilians.
Pope Leo XIV Urges Immediate Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Crisis
Pope Leo XIV Urges Immediate Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Crisis
In a passionate address, Pope Leo XIV calls for action to alleviate the suffering in Gaza during his inaugural audience.
In a compelling display of empathy, Pope Leo XIV called for urgent humanitarian assistance to be allowed into the Gaza Strip during his first general audience on Wednesday at St. Peter’s Square. Describing the hunger crisis in the war-torn area as “heart-rending,” the pope urged for immediate action to facilitate the delivery of dignified aid while also reiterating calls for an end to hostilities that severely impact vulnerable populations, particularly children, the sick, and the elderly.
His impassioned words met with enthusiastic applause from the gathering, which the Vatican estimates at around 40,000 attendees. This critical appeal comes in the wake of intensified conflict since the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas dissolved in March, leaving many to suffer as Israel tightens measures to compel Hamas to release hostages.
In his initial public statements following his election on May 8, the new pope emphasized critical humanitarian needs, calling upon Hamas to relinquish its hostages while simultaneously advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza. “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed,” he expressed fervently in his official message, showcasing a dedicated commitment to peace as he steps into his papacy.
Pope Leo XIV’s audience, a traditional engagement that allows popes to connect with followers, concluded with a poignant reflection that underscored the ongoing humanitarian crisis, not only in Gaza but also in other conflict zones, including Ukraine. The collective hope remains that through dialogue and compassion, destructive patterns can be reconciled, paving the way for lasting peace.
His impassioned words met with enthusiastic applause from the gathering, which the Vatican estimates at around 40,000 attendees. This critical appeal comes in the wake of intensified conflict since the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas dissolved in March, leaving many to suffer as Israel tightens measures to compel Hamas to release hostages.
In his initial public statements following his election on May 8, the new pope emphasized critical humanitarian needs, calling upon Hamas to relinquish its hostages while simultaneously advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza. “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed,” he expressed fervently in his official message, showcasing a dedicated commitment to peace as he steps into his papacy.
Pope Leo XIV’s audience, a traditional engagement that allows popes to connect with followers, concluded with a poignant reflection that underscored the ongoing humanitarian crisis, not only in Gaza but also in other conflict zones, including Ukraine. The collective hope remains that through dialogue and compassion, destructive patterns can be reconciled, paving the way for lasting peace.
