The new pontiff emphasized the urgent need for dignified humanitarian assistance while calling for an end to ongoing hostilities affecting vulnerable populations.
Pope Leo XIV Urges Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Crisis
Pope Leo XIV Urges Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Crisis
In his inaugural general audience, the Pope expressed deep concern over the escalating hunger crisis in Gaza.
Pope Leo XIV has made headlines by appealing for humanitarian aid in his first general audience held in St. Peter’s Square, where he described the situation in Gaza as “heart-rending.” Using his platform to draw attention to the increased hunger crisis affecting the region, the Pope urged for dignified humanitarian support to reach those in need and called for an immediate halt to hostilities, which he emphasized are disproportionately harming children, the elderly, and the sick.
His appeal resonates with comments recently made by leaders from Britain, Canada, and France, who have requested Israel's government to facilitate more aid access to Gaza. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply since a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas collapsed in March, prompting Israel to restrict aid flows in a bid to pressure Hamas regarding hostages still held.
At the general audience, attended by around 40,000 individuals, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis, not just in Gaza but also in conflict zones like Ukraine. Immediately following his election on May 8, he urged for peace in the region, declaring, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed,” emphasizing the urgency of compassion and action.
The address concluded the weekly general audience, a tradition upheld by popes, which typically includes thematic reflections and significant current topics. Pope Leo XIV’s strong messages on the humanitarian needs in Gaza mark a continued focus for his pontificate as he seeks to advocate for peace and relief in conflict-stricken areas.
His appeal resonates with comments recently made by leaders from Britain, Canada, and France, who have requested Israel's government to facilitate more aid access to Gaza. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply since a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas collapsed in March, prompting Israel to restrict aid flows in a bid to pressure Hamas regarding hostages still held.
At the general audience, attended by around 40,000 individuals, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis, not just in Gaza but also in conflict zones like Ukraine. Immediately following his election on May 8, he urged for peace in the region, declaring, “Let humanitarian aid be provided to the stricken civil population, and let all the hostages be freed,” emphasizing the urgency of compassion and action.
The address concluded the weekly general audience, a tradition upheld by popes, which typically includes thematic reflections and significant current topics. Pope Leo XIV’s strong messages on the humanitarian needs in Gaza mark a continued focus for his pontificate as he seeks to advocate for peace and relief in conflict-stricken areas.
