The Pope urgently called for an end to the war in Gaza.

On August 27, 2025, Pope Leo made a statement addressing the international community with an urgent call to end the “conflict between Israel and Hamas,” which has been ongoing for nearly two years. During his traditional audience at the Vatican, he raised issues about the need for a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages in Gaza, and the provision of humanitarian aid.

The Pontiff noted:

“Once again, I make a resolute appeal… to put an end to the conflict in the Holy Land, which has led to terrible terms, destruction, and deaths.”

He emphasized the importance of releasing all hostages, ensuring safe access for humanitarian organizations, and adhering to international humanitarian law.

Although the Pope did not mention either Israel or Hamas, he highlighted the necessity of protecting civilians and prohibiting collective punishments, calling for the prevention of inappropriate use of force and forced relocations.

Interestingly, the agency notes that Pope Leo shows greater caution on issues related to this conflict compared to Pope Francis, who raised the question of whether Israel’s military operation in Gaza is genocide against Palestinians, which drew criticism from Israeli authorities.

In the same agenda, President Donald Trump’s special representative for the Middle East, Whitcoff, previously stated that the war in Gaza would end by the end of the year “one way or another.”

Read more at – NANews Israel News