Cynthia Ezegwu
Pope Leo XIV on Sunday commended what he described as “significant progress” in efforts to secure peace in Gaza, reiterating his call for an immediate ceasefire in the war-torn Palestinian territory and the release of Israeli hostages.
Speaking at the conclusion of a mass at the Vatican, the pontiff said recent developments in negotiations offered renewed hope for an end to the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict.
“In recent hours, significant progress has been made in peace negotiations, which I hope will lead to the desired outcomes as soon as possible,” Pope Leo XIV said. “I call on all responsible individuals to commit to this path — to a ceasefire and to the release of hostages — in order to achieve a just and lasting peace.”
His remarks followed reports of a positive response from Hamas to U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed plan to end the conflict.
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The Pope also expressed deep sorrow over the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, describing the suffering of the Palestinian people as “immense.”
In addition, he condemned the recent rise in antisemitic violence globally, citing Thursday’s terrorist attack on a synagogue in Manchester that left two people dead and three others seriously injured.
Pope Leo XIV urged world leaders and communities of faith to reject hatred and work collectively for peace, justice, and mutual understanding among all peoples.