In a powerful first general audience held in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV passionately addressed the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for urgent humanitarian assistance to be permitted into the war-torn territory. He described the escalating hunger crisis as “heart-rending” and highlighted the suffering of vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and the sick.
Pope Leo's comments resonated with the crowd of approximately 40,000 attendees, who applauded his call for “the entry of dignified humanitarian aid” while imploring an end to hostilities that have devastated lives. This public appeal coincided with recent statements from leaders of key allies—Britain, Canada, and France—urging the Israeli government to facilitate aid to Gaza, especially following the breakdown of a cease-fire in March.
The Pope's remarks come after days of his election, during which he openly condemned the violence and called for both a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The ongoing conflict ignited following Hamas's attack on Israel in 2023, escalating the humanitarian disaster within Gaza.
His commitment to addressing urgent global issues extends beyond Gaza, as he has also been vocal about the war in Ukraine since his election. As he concluded his first audience, Pope Leo reiterated, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed,” reflecting his intention to lead with a focus on peace and compassion during his papacy.
This first general audience not only marked a significant moment for Pope Leo XIV but also reinforced the crucial need for international attention and action regarding the pressing humanitarian crises facing various regions today.
Pope Leo's comments resonated with the crowd of approximately 40,000 attendees, who applauded his call for “the entry of dignified humanitarian aid” while imploring an end to hostilities that have devastated lives. This public appeal coincided with recent statements from leaders of key allies—Britain, Canada, and France—urging the Israeli government to facilitate aid to Gaza, especially following the breakdown of a cease-fire in March.
The Pope's remarks come after days of his election, during which he openly condemned the violence and called for both a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The ongoing conflict ignited following Hamas's attack on Israel in 2023, escalating the humanitarian disaster within Gaza.
His commitment to addressing urgent global issues extends beyond Gaza, as he has also been vocal about the war in Ukraine since his election. As he concluded his first audience, Pope Leo reiterated, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed,” reflecting his intention to lead with a focus on peace and compassion during his papacy.
This first general audience not only marked a significant moment for Pope Leo XIV but also reinforced the crucial need for international attention and action regarding the pressing humanitarian crises facing various regions today.
