Pope Francis has once again made an impassioned plea for an end to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. Speaking after the Angelus prayer at Saint Peter’s Square in Rome on Sunday, the Pope described the situation as “very serious” and urged both sides to cease fire.
“I beg you in the name of God to stop, cease fire,” the Pope implored, highlighting the loss of lives on both sides. He also called for efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating further and for the release of hostages.
The recent wave of violence began when Hamas militants crossed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, resulting in casualties and the taking of hostages, according to Israeli authorities. In response, Israel launched a sustained bombardment of the Gaza Strip.
The conflict has had devastating consequences, with a significant loss of life, including a large number of women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The Pope has been vocal about his concerns regarding the conflict in the past, advocating for an end to hostilities and the facilitation of humanitarian aid to reach Gaza. Last month, he discussed conflict situations and the quest for peace with US President Joe Biden.
Pope Francis’s latest plea for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance reflects the international community’s ongoing concern about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region and the need to find a peaceful resolution to the Hamas-Israel conflict.