Pope Leo Says He Is “Deeply Hurt by What Is Happening in Gaza,” Urges Allowing Entry of Aid

Vatican (Quds News Network)- Pope Leo XIV, during his first Sunday address at the Vatican, said he is “deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip,” and called for an immediate ceasefire and the entry of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian enclave.

The newly selected pontiff called for a “lasting peace” in the war in Ukraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and welcomed Saturday’s ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

Pope Leo was chosen as the new leader of the Catholic Church on Thursday following the death of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Pope Leo will be formally inaugurated at a Mass in St Peter’s Square next week on 18 May.

“I would also like to address the powerful people of the world, repeating the always current call: ‘no more war’,” he told the crowd on Sunday from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.

“The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago…now we’re facing the tragedy of a third world war in pieces.”

The pontiff continued: “And I am deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip.”

“May a ceasefire immediately come into effect. May humanitarian aid be allowed into the civilian population and may all hostages be freed.”

Pope Francis was a staunch advocate for Palestinians and kept in regular contact with Catholics in Gaza amid Israel’s assault. That included daily calls with the priest at the Holy Family Church in Gaza City, the only Catholic church in the Palestinian enclave. Upon his death, Francis also donated his so-called “popemobile” to Gaza to serve as a mobile children’s clinic.