- 17 September, 2025
Vatican City, September 17, 2025 — Pope Leo XIV renewed his urgent appeal for peace in Gaza on Wednesday, calling for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and full respect for international humanitarian law. Speaking at the conclusion of his weekly General Audience in the Vatican, the Holy Father expressed his “deepest” sympathy for the Palestinian people.
“I express my deepest sympathy to the Palestinian people in Gaza, who continue to live in fear and survive in unacceptable conditions, forced—once again—from their lands,” Pope Leo said.
His remarks came as Israeli forces launched a major new offensive on Gaza City, the territory’s largest population centre. On Tuesday, the military ordered civilians to evacuate amid what observers described as the most intense bombardment in almost two years of conflict. According to Hamas, some 350,000 residents fled the eastern parts of Gaza City for displacement centres elsewhere in the city, while a further 175,000 left the city entirely.
Dignity of every person
The Pope invoked Scripture in underlining the sanctity of life. “The Almighty Lord commanded, ‘Thou shalt not kill,’” he recalled. “Every person always has an inviolable dignity, to be respected and protected.”
He stressed that the ongoing violence represents not only a humanitarian catastrophe but also a profound violation of that dignity.
Renewed call for peace
Pope Leo called again for concrete steps to end the bloodshed. “I renew my appeal for a ceasefire, for the release of the hostages, for a negotiated diplomatic solution, and for full respect for international humanitarian law,” he said.
In his closing words, the Holy Father invited all people of goodwill to unite in prayer. “Let us join in a heartfelt prayer that a dawn of peace and justice may soon rise,” he urged.
Courtesy: Vatican News
Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates:
Android: Click here to download
© 2025 CATHOLIC CONNECT POWERED BY ATCONLINE LLP