The appeal comes amid escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli forces launched a major military offensive against Gaza City
Newsroom (17/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) At the conclusion of his weekly General Audience, Pope Leo XIV expressed profound sympathy for the people of Gaza, renewing his impassioned plea for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing crisis, and strict adherence to international humanitarian law.
“I express my deepest sympathy to the Palestinian people in Gaza, who continue to live in fear and survive in unacceptable conditions, forced—once again—from their lands,” the pontiff declared Wednesday morning before a global audience at the Vatican.
The appeal comes amid escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli forces launched a major military offensive against Gaza City, the region’s largest population center, on Tuesday. The operation has triggered intense bombardment, described as the most severe in nearly two years of conflict. According to Hamas, approximately 350,000 residents have fled eastern Gaza City to displacement centers within the city, while an additional 175,000 have left the city entirely.
A Call for Dignity and Peace
Invoking divine authority, Pope Leo XIV underscored the sanctity of human life, stating, “In the presence of all humanity, and invoking the Almighty Lord, who commanded ‘Thou shalt not kill,’ every person always has an inviolable dignity, to be respected and protected.”
The Holy Father reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, a negotiated diplomatic solution, and full compliance with international humanitarian law. He concluded his address with a heartfelt invitation for all to join in prayer “that a dawn of peace and justice may soon rise” in the region.
Concern for Gaza’s Displaced
On Tuesday evening, as he departed the Villa Barberini in Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV spoke briefly with journalists, lamenting the mass exodus from Gaza City. He revealed that he had been in direct contact with Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, pastor of the Holy Family Catholic parish in Gaza, where 450 people are currently seeking refuge amid Israel’s intensified ground campaign.
“Many have nowhere to go, and so it is a concern,” the Pope said. “I have also spoken with our people there, with the parish priest. For now, they want to stay; they are still holding on, but we really need to look for another solution.”
Earlier that day, Pope Leo had called Fr. Romanelli to check on the community sheltering in the church compound, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to supporting those affected by the crisis.
Broader Geopolitical Tensions
When questioned about recent Kremlin statements alleging a NATO war with Russia, Pope Leo XIV responded cautiously, noting, “NATO has not started any war. The Poles are worried because they feel their airspace has been violated; it is a very tense situation.” His remarks reflect the Vatican’s broader concern for de-escalation in global conflicts.
A Moment of Celebration
Before leaving Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo was greeted with chants of “happy birthday” and “happy name day,” the latter marking the feast of Saint Robert Bellarmine on September 17. A group of Polish faithful presented the pontiff with a bouquet and a note, a gesture that underscored the personal warmth and connection he fosters with the faithful.
As the crisis in Gaza deepens, Pope Leo XIV’s renewed appeal for peace and dignity serves as a powerful reminder of the Vatican’s enduring commitment to humanitarian principles and diplomacy in the face of global turmoil.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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