Vatican City, May 21, 2025 — In his inaugural general audience as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV issued a heartfelt appeal for the entry of “dignified” humanitarian aid into Gaza and called for an immediate end to hostilities that have disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and the sick. Speaking to tens of thousands of faithful in St. Peter’s Square, the newly elected pope emphasized the urgency of addressing the “increasingly worrying and painful” humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave. (Reuters)
Pope Leo’s remarks come as Israel has begun permitting a limited amount of aid into Gaza after a nearly three-month blockade. However, humanitarian organizations report that the aid delivered thus far is insufficient to meet the overwhelming needs of the population. The United Nations has warned that the humanitarian response in Gaza is “on the verge of collapse,” with thousands of lives at risk due to shortages of food, medicine, and other essential supplies. (The Irish Times)
In his address, Pope Leo reiterated his commitment to peace and compassion, aligning with the positions of his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, who had also called for an end to the violence and the provision of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Pope Leo’s appeal underscores the Vatican’s longstanding advocacy for the protection of civilians and the promotion of peace in conflict zones worldwide.
As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, Pope Leo XIV’s call for “dignified” aid and an end to hostilities serves as a poignant reminder of the moral imperative to uphold human dignity and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
Pope Leo XIV Picture on Wikimedia by Edgar Beltrán, The Pillar
