Vatican City – Pope Leo, the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, has made a powerful appeal for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, expressing deep sorrow over the ongoing humanitarian crisis and urging both Israel and Hamas to halt hostilities.
Speaking to thousands gathered at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope said,
“The heart-wrenching cries of Gaza’s parents are reaching the heavens. They sit holding the lifeless bodies of their innocent children, and their helplessness tears through the sky.”
He called on both sides to fully respect international humanitarian laws and to end the violence to prevent further civilian casualties.
The Pope’s comments come amid a worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. According to local health authorities, three Palestinians were killed and 46 others wounded on Wednesday due to Israeli gunfire. Additionally, ongoing airstrikes throughout the day have resulted in the deaths of at least 30 more people.
In a rare and strong statement, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert also condemned the Israeli government’s actions, stating,
“Starving Gaza is a war crime. Netanyahu’s government has become a gang of thugs unworthy of representing Israel.”
International human rights organizations continue to voice concern over the rising death toll and deteriorating living conditions in Gaza, calling for increased diplomatic efforts to broker peace.
Pope Leo’s emotional appeal underscores the urgency of the crisis, adding to mounting global pressure for a sustainable ceasefire and a return to dialogue.
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