Pope Leo XIV, in a heartfelt appeal during his inaugural general audience, has emphasized the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, urging the world to facilitate aid and restore peace.
Pope Leo XIV Urges Immediate Humanitarian Relief for Gaza
Pope Leo XIV Urges Immediate Humanitarian Relief for Gaza
In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV calls for urgent humanitarian aid and an end to hostilities in Gaza amidst a growing crisis.
In his first general audience held at St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV made a passionate plea for humanitarian assistance to be allowed into the Gaza Strip, which he described as a “heart-rending” situation. Drawing attention to the devastating hunger crisis affecting countless individuals, the pontiff stated that it is increasingly worrying and painful, underscoring the suffering endured by children, the elderly, and the sick. His message was met with resounding applause from the estimated 40,000 attendees.
The pope's call for aid comes shortly after leaders from UK, Canada, and France urged the Israeli government to increase support for Gaza amidst hostilities. Since a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas faltered earlier in March, aid restrictions have been imposed as part of Israel's strategy to compel the release of hostages held by Hamas.
During his initial public engagement as pope, Leo XIV conveyed a strong desire for an immediate cease-fire and the liberation of hostages, stating, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civilian population, and let all the hostages be freed.” His appeals extend beyond Gaza, also encompassing the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Wednesday's audience concluded with remarks reflecting on the situation in Gaza, a tradition upheld by popes as part of their weekly engagements with the faithful. The new pope’s commitment to addressing urgent humanitarian issues signals a determined start to his pontificate, aiming to use his platform to promote peace and compassion.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a journalist for Echosphere News, focusing on global responses to climate and humanitarian crises.
The pope's call for aid comes shortly after leaders from UK, Canada, and France urged the Israeli government to increase support for Gaza amidst hostilities. Since a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas faltered earlier in March, aid restrictions have been imposed as part of Israel's strategy to compel the release of hostages held by Hamas.
During his initial public engagement as pope, Leo XIV conveyed a strong desire for an immediate cease-fire and the liberation of hostages, stating, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civilian population, and let all the hostages be freed.” His appeals extend beyond Gaza, also encompassing the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Wednesday's audience concluded with remarks reflecting on the situation in Gaza, a tradition upheld by popes as part of their weekly engagements with the faithful. The new pope’s commitment to addressing urgent humanitarian issues signals a determined start to his pontificate, aiming to use his platform to promote peace and compassion.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a journalist for Echosphere News, focusing on global responses to climate and humanitarian crises.
