Pope Leo XIV Urges Humanitarian Aid for Gaza Crisis

Pope Leo XIV highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza during his first general audience at St. Peter's Square, expressing deep concern for the needy and calling for an end to hostilities.

Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt appeal for humanitarian aid to be granted entry into the Gaza Strip on Wednesday during his first general audience held in St. Peter’s Square. He described the worsening hunger crisis in the territory as "heart-rending," urging the international community to prioritize human dignity and alleviation of suffering.

"Let us allow the entry of humanitarian assistance and work towards an end to the hostilities that are disproportionately affecting the vulnerable, particularly children, the elderly, and the sick," the pope stated, resonating with the gathered crowd, which responded with robust applause.

Leo XIV's remarks followed closely on the heels of statements from the leaders of Britain, Canada, and France, urging Israel to facilitate more aid to the besieged Gaza Strip. The humanitarian situation has become critical since a ceasefire with Hamas collapsed in March, prompting Israel to restrict aid as a pressure tactic for hostage negotiations.

During Wednesday's audience, attended by an estimated 40,000 people, the pope continued to voice his concerns about both the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Only days after taking office on May 8, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas, which escalated the conflict in the region after its attacks on Israel in 2023.

"Let humanitarian aid reach those suffering, and let us insist on the release of all hostages," he stated emphatically in a message conveying his vision for peace in the region. His calls for compassion and relief efforts were delivered at the close of the traditional weekly audience, a long-standing tradition for pontiffs engaging with the faithful.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a journalist reporting from Rome, focusing on Italy, the Vatican, and the cultural dynamics of the region.