Pope Leo XIV on Sunday expressed cautious optimism over recent developments in efforts to end the war in Gaza, saying he hopes the latest negotiations will soon yield “the desired results.”
Addressing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square for his weekly Angelus prayer, the pontiff said there had been “significant steps forward” in the peace talks between Israel and Hamas, while urging all sides to remain steadfast in their pursuit of a “just and lasting peace.”
“In recent hours, amid the dramatic situation in the Middle East, some significant steps forward have been taken in the peace negotiations, which I hope will soon achieve the desired results,” Pope Leo said.
The pope called on leaders and mediators to act with courage and sincerity, stating that the suffering of civilians “must no longer be ignored.”
He also renewed his plea for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, nearly two years after the conflict erupted when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and abducting 251 hostages.
“I again call for the release of all those still held captive and for peace founded on justice, dialogue, and respect for human dignity,” the pope added.
The Vatican has been quietly involved in humanitarian diplomacy since the early months of the conflict, calling repeatedly for access to aid in Gaza and for renewed international efforts to achieve reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians.
Pope Leo XIV welcomes ‘significant progress’ toward ending Gaza war