Pope Leo Urges Ceasefire in Gaza, Advocates for Peace in Ukraine

Politics

Pope Leo Urges Ceasefire in Gaza, Advocates for Peace in Ukraine

6 months ago

News sources:

REUTERS

CHANNELNEWSASIA

Pope Leo Urges Ceasefire in Gaza, Advocates for Peace in Ukraine

Credited from: AA

Pope Leo calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
The pontiff appeals for adherence to humanitarian law amid ongoing conflict.
He also urges peace efforts in Ukraine, citing increased civilian attacks.

Pope Leo XIV strongly appealed for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, urging both Israel and Hamas to fully respect international humanitarian law during his weekly general audience. The pope stated, "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," reflecting on the crisis that has escalated to a death toll exceeding 54,000 Palestinians due to the conflict since October 2023, according to Reuters, aa, and Channel News Asia.

The pontiff's remarks included a forceful call to "stop the fighting" and liberate all hostages. He reiterated the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance, as thousands of Palestinians struggle to access essential supplies due to an ongoing Israeli blockade imposed earlier this year, as highlighted by both Reuters and Channel News Asia.

In addition to his appeals regarding Gaza, Pope Leo expressed grave concerns over the escalating violence in Ukraine. He emphasized the need for peace and dialogue in light of renewed attacks on civilians and infrastructure, calling on the international community to support peace initiatives, according to aa and Channel News Asia.