Pope Leo Appeals to Israel for Ceasefire in Gaza, Seeks Release of Hostages
Pope Leo has issued a forceful appeal for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, urging that all hostages be released and that humanitarian aid be allowed safe access to civilians trapped by the intensifying conflict.
Speaking during his weekly audience at the Vatican and in subsequent meetings and statements, the Pope condemned the humanitarian conditions in Gaza as "unacceptable" and urged international actors to press for a diplomatic end to the fighting.
“I implore that all hostages be freed, that a permanent ceasefire be reached, that the safe entry of humanitarian aid be facilitated, and that international humanitarian law be fully respected,” the Pope said, calling on the global community to protect civilians and to prevent collective punishment.
Vatican officials additionally noted that Pope Leo has raised the issue privately in meetings with world leaders. In recent days he received Israel’s President in the Apostolic Palace, reiterating his plea for urgent negotiations, the facilitation of aid, and the liberation of all remaining hostages.
The Pope's remarks come amid a renewed and intense Israeli military offensive focused on Gaza City, which has triggered widespread displacement and raised alarm among humanitarian organizations about shortages of food, fuel and medical supplies.
International reaction to the Pope's appeal has been mixed: humanitarian groups and several states called the Vatican’s intervention timely, while the complex security and political dynamics surrounding hostages and militant groups continue to complicate prospects for an immediate ceasefire.
Background
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has persisted since October 2023, producing widespread devastation across Gaza and leading to periodic international calls for pauses in fighting to allow relief operations and to negotiate hostage releases. The Pope—elected earlier this year—has repeatedly invoked international humanitarian law and the duty to protect civilians in his public remarks on the conflict.
What the Pope is asking for
- Immediate and permanent ceasefire to end active hostilities.
- Unconditional or negotiated release of all hostages held in Gaza.
- Unimpeded entry and distribution of humanitarian aid to civilians in need.
- Full respect for international humanitarian law, with protections for civilians and places of worship.
Why it matters
The Pope’s intervention adds moral and diplomatic pressure at a moment of severe humanitarian strain. Religious and international leaders can influence public opinion and diplomatic engagement, and the Vatican’s appeals are often used by humanitarian and diplomatic actors to push for ceasefires and negotiated access for aid.
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