Pope Declares Support for Cease-fire Proposal, Renews Calls for Increased Aid to Gaza
Speaking to the faithful gathered at St. Peter’s Square for Sunday’s noon blessing, Pope Francis addressed the Israel-Hamas war, expressing his support for the latest cease-fire proposal and the urgent need for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
“I encourage the international community to act urgently, with all means, to come to the aid of the people of Gaza, worn out by the war,” he said, adding that he hopes the deal will “be accepted immediately for the sake of the Palestinians and Israelis.”
Francis has publicly commented on the conflict multiple times since the war erupted eight months ago following Hamas’ October 7 terror attack, previously calling for a cease-fire and the release of all remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
In April, the Vatican hosted the hostage relatives for an audience with Francis.
Francis also thanked Jordan for organizing and hosting an upcoming humanitarian aid conference on behalf of Gazans.
He noted that Sunday marked the 10th anniversary of a peace prayer he led with former Israeli President Shimon Peres and Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.
“That meeting showed that shaking hands is possible and that to make peace, you need courage—much more courage than to make war,” Francis proclaimed.
