Pope Leo Renews Call for Gaza Ceasefire Following Attack on Catholic Parish

Vatican City, July 18, 2025 – In the wake of a military assault on the Holy Family Catholic Parish in Gaza that claimed two lives and left several seriously wounded, Pope Leo XIV has once again called for an “immediate ceasefire.” The appeal came through a telegram of solidarity sent on his behalf to the affected parish.

The message, signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, conveyed the Pope’s profound grief over the tragic loss of life and the suffering caused. He assured the parish community of his spiritual closeness, particularly extending his prayers to the injured parish priest, Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, and to all those affected by the violence.

The Pope commended the souls of the deceased to the “loving mercy of Almighty God” and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured and the consolation of those who grieve.

Finally, he renewed his appeal for peace and for a ceasefire, and expressed his "profound hope for dialogue, reconciliation, and enduring peace in the region.”

Over 60,200 people (58,313 Palestinians and 1,983 Israelis) have been reported killed in the Gaza war, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, since 7 October 2023.

Courtesy: Vatican News

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