CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy - In a strong statement from his summer retreat, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during his Sunday Angelus prayer. The Pope emphasized the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, which he described as a "barbarity" that must come to an end. His remarks were made on July 20, 2025, reflecting a continued concern for the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
The Pope expressed his "deep sorrow" over the recent Israeli attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza, which occurred shortly before his remarks. This attack resulted in the tragic loss of three lives and left ten others wounded, including the parish priest. The Holy Family Catholic Church has been a refuge for many Palestinians seeking safety from the violence of the Israel-Hamas war, which has now been ongoing for 21 months.
In his address, Pope Leo XIV urged the international community to adhere to humanitarian law and to fulfill their obligations to protect civilians. He condemned collective punishment, the indiscriminate use of force, and the forced displacement of populations, issues that have been prevalent in the conflict. The Pope called for a dialogue-oriented approach, urging that weapons be set aside in favor of conversation and peace.
Further highlighting his commitment to protecting sacred spaces, the Pope mentioned his recent phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He insisted on the importance of safeguarding places of worship for all religions, further underlining the need for respect and protection for religious minorities affected by the conflict.
The shelling incident at the Holy Family Catholic Church not only resulted in civilian casualties but also inflicted damage on the church compound, which had been providing shelter to hundreds of Palestinians amidst the conflict. Israel's response to the incident included an expression of regret, labeling it an accident, and the commitment to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
During his on-site reflections after a Mass held at the Cathedral of Albano, the Pope reiterated the imperative for peace, stating that "the world no longer tolerates war." His calls resonate with the sentiments of many who are advocating for an end to fighting and a return to dialogue in order to resolve this protracted crisis.
Pope Leo XIV is expected to remain in Castel Gandolfo until Tuesday evening, after which he will return to his residence at the Vatican. This visit has been marked by his vocal stance on peace and humanitarian matters, aligning with his papacy’s broader focus on social justice and the protection of vulnerable populations.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the voice of the Pope serves as an important reminder of the need for compassion and humanitarian action in situations of war and violence, encouraging all to pursue paths of dialogue over armed conflict.
