ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV issued a passionate plea on Wednesday, urging Israel to halt the “collective punishment” and forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza. As tensions mount amid preparations for a new Israeli military offensive, the Pope called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in the besieged territory during his weekly general audience at the Vatican, attended by thousands. This marks another significant intervention from the first American pope in the ongoing conflict that has lasted 22 months.
During his address, Leo found support from the audience, being interrupted twice by applause as he expressed his concerns over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. He emphasized the urgent need for the release of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas, stating that about 50 hostages are still held in Gaza following a brutal attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in around 1,200 fatalities and initiated the conflict.
“I beg for a permanent ceasefire to be reached, the safe entry of humanitarian aid to be facilitated, and humanitarian law to be fully respected,” Leo appealed. He invoked international law highlighting the obligations to protect civilians, denounce collective punishment, and prevent the indiscriminate use of force. His comments come as Israel prepares for an expanded offensive targeting densely populated areas, including Gaza City, where famine conditions have worsened.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has articulated plans to proceed with the Gaza City offensive while simultaneously pursuing a ceasefire. Nonetheless, there has been little movement towards negotiations, with critics arguing that the military offensive jeopardizes the safety of hostages. Hostage families have expressed their concerns, highlighting the potential risks involved in the ongoing conflict.
Amid this backdrop, Leo drew attention to a statement from Latin and Greek Orthodox patriarchs of Jerusalem. They affirmed their intention to remain in Gaza City despite evacuation orders, asserting that many people taking refuge in the churches are too vulnerable and malnourished to evacuate, thereby risking their lives. The Holy Family Catholic Church and the Saint Porphyrius Orthodox Church have provided sanctuary to numerous Palestinian civilians, including the elderly, women, and children throughout the conflict.
Pope Francis has remained supportive of the situation in Gaza, maintaining communication with local clergy to express his solidarity with the affected communities. Recently, Leo has reiterated the importance of respecting the rights of individuals to reside in their homelands, asserting that no one should be forced into exile.
In contrast, Netanyahu has suggested that Gaza’s population could consider “voluntary emigration” to other countries, which has raised significant concern among human rights groups and the Palestinian community. Many Palestinians fear that even if they were to leave temporarily to escape the violence, Israel might not allow them to return.
As the situation continues to escalate in Gaza, Pope Leo XIV's remarks signify a profound call for peace and compassion amidst the humanitarian disaster. His insistence on respecting the rights of the vulnerable and protecting innocent civilians speaks to the larger narrative of the ongoing conflict and the need for urgent intervention from both local and international actors.
