Pope Francis reiterated his call for an end to hostilities between Israelis and Palestinians on Sunday, emphasizing the need for “much more” humanitarian aid for Gaza. During his weekly Angelus prayers in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope urged an immediate focus on caring for the wounded in Gaza, ensuring the protection of civilians, and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
In his address, Pope Francis stressed that arms would never bring about peace, and he expressed his closeness to all those suffering, both Palestinians and Israelis, stating that he was praying for them. The Pope’s plea comes at a time when Israel has expressed readiness to evacuate babies from Gaza’s largest hospital, while reports indicate people remain trapped amid intense fighting nearby.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened, with minimal aid entering the region since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas over a month ago. Palestinian officials reported a high toll, with 11,078 Gaza residents killed in air and artillery strikes, approximately 40% of them children.
Pope Francis, aged 86, has previously called for the creation of humanitarian corridors and advocated for a two-state solution as a necessary step to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict.