In his inaugural general audience at St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt plea for humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip, describing the escalating hunger crisis as “heart-rending.” Emphasizing the plight of vulnerable populations—children, the elderly, and the sick—he urged, “Let the entry of dignified humanitarian aid be permitted, and let the hostilities cease.” The pope's remarks were met with notable applause by the approximately 40,000 attendees who gathered for the occasion.
This call for urgent action follows a trend of international leaders, including British, Canadian, and French officials, appealing to Israel for increased aid to Gaza. Since the breakdown of a cease-fire with Hamas in March, restrictions on aid have intensified, aimed at pressuring the group to release hostages taken during the conflict.
Just days after assuming his papal role on May 8, Leo XIV addressed the situation, advocating for both immediate ceasefire initiatives and the release of hostages still held in Gaza. The prior outbreak of violence in 2023 originated from Hamas's assault on Israel.
As part of the esteemed tradition of the general audience, which allows the pope to engage with the faithful and address relevant issues, Leo XIV continued to highlight pressing matters, including the war in Ukraine.
His commitment to humanitarian causes and calls for peace resonate deeply as the pope seeks to bring attention to human suffering and advocate for justice amidst conflict.
This call for urgent action follows a trend of international leaders, including British, Canadian, and French officials, appealing to Israel for increased aid to Gaza. Since the breakdown of a cease-fire with Hamas in March, restrictions on aid have intensified, aimed at pressuring the group to release hostages taken during the conflict.
Just days after assuming his papal role on May 8, Leo XIV addressed the situation, advocating for both immediate ceasefire initiatives and the release of hostages still held in Gaza. The prior outbreak of violence in 2023 originated from Hamas's assault on Israel.
As part of the esteemed tradition of the general audience, which allows the pope to engage with the faithful and address relevant issues, Leo XIV continued to highlight pressing matters, including the war in Ukraine.
His commitment to humanitarian causes and calls for peace resonate deeply as the pope seeks to bring attention to human suffering and advocate for justice amidst conflict.
