Pope Leo XIV calls Trump’s Gaza peace plan “realistic,” urges Hamas to accept. Addresses flotilla, U.S. nuclear rhetoric, Vatican trial, and Cupich controversy.
Newsroom (01/10/2025, Gaudium Press )In a candid exchange with journalists outside Villa Barberini on Tuesday evening, Pope Leo XIV addressed pressing global and ecclesiastical issues, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan, a humanitarian flotilla nearing the Gaza coast, rising U.S. nuclear rhetoric, the Vatican’s ongoing financial trial, and controversies surrounding Cardinal Blaise Cupich. The remarks, delivered before his return to the Vatican, underscored the Pontiff’s call for peace, respect, and adherence to Church teaching.
Gaza Peace Plan: A Hopeful Proposal
Commenting on the 20-point Gaza peace plan presented by President Trump with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval, Pope Leo XIV described it as “realistic” and expressed hope that Hamas would accept it within the proposed timeframe. “We hope they accept it; so far it seems a realistic proposal,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of a ceasefire and hostage release. He noted “very interesting elements” in the plan, reinforcing the Vatican’s support for diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
Humanitarian Flotilla: Respecting People
On the flotilla approaching Gaza to deliver aid amid heightened tensions, the Pope acknowledged the “real humanitarian emergency” driving the effort. He urged all parties to avoid violence, stating, “There is a desire to respond to a real humanitarian emergency. We hope there is no violence and that people are respected.” His remarks reflected a cautious optimism for de-escalation in the volatile region.
U.S. Nuclear Rhetoric: A Cause for Concern
Addressing U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s recent meeting with military leaders prepared for war, including nuclear options, Pope Leo XIV expressed unease. “This way of speaking is worrying,” he said, critiquing the escalating rhetoric. He also commented on President Trump’s decision to rename the Department of Defense to the “Department of War,” calling it “rhetoric” reflective of a governing style that “uses force to exert pressure.” He added, “We hope it works, but that there is no war; we must work for peace.”
Vatican Financial Trial: No Interference
Asked about the ongoing Vatican trial concerning the management of Holy See funds, the Pope declined to comment on specifics, stressing judicial independence. “It must proceed,” he said, adding, “I do not intend to interfere.” He entrusted the matter to judges and defense lawyers, signaling his commitment to transparency in the process.
Cardinal Cupich and Senator Durbin: A Call for Nuance
In response to a question in English about Cardinal Blaise Cupich’s decision to award a prize to Democratic Senator Dick Durbin, a supporter of legalized abortion, Pope Leo XIV urged a broader perspective. “I’m not very familiar with the particular case,” he admitted, noting Durbin’s 40 years of service in the U.S. Senate. He emphasized the complexity of ethical issues, stating, “It is important to consider many issues related to the teaching of the Church.”
The Pope critiqued inconsistent applications of pro-life principles, saying, “Saying ‘I am against abortion’ while supporting the death penalty is not truly pro-life, nor is agreeing with the inhumane treatment of immigrants in the United States.” He called for mutual respect and dialogue, urging Catholics to “look closely at all these ethical issues and find the way forward as a Church,” in line with clear Church teachings.
Return to the Vatican and Upcoming Events
Pope Leo XIV departed Castel Gandolfo by car at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, after arriving the previous evening. He is set to return Wednesday afternoon following the General Audience to attend the “Raising Hope for Climate Justice” event at the Focolare Movement’s Mariapoli Centre. The international gathering, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’, will feature over 400 religious leaders, climate experts, civil society representatives, and institutional delegates. The Pontiff will preside over the “Celebration of Hope,” reinforcing his commitment to environmental justice.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Vatican News
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