Pope Leo XIV pleads for an end to Gaza’s “devastating” suffering and calls for proper humanitarian assistance

During his meeting at St. Peter's Square on May 21, Pope Leo XIV called for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip after Israel's blockade and an end to the “heartbreaking” suffering from its people. In front of approximately 40,000 people, the American pontiff called for the freedom of all Israeli hostages and an “immediate” ceasefire.

"I renew my heartfelt appeal to allow the entry of dignified humanitarian aid and to bring an end to the hostilities, whose heart-rending price is borne by children, the elderly, and the sick.” he said. Leo XIV also prayed for peace in the Palestinian enclave during the Regina Coeli prayer at his enthronement Mass on May 18.

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Pope Leo XIV demands access to humanitarian aid in Gaza

Pope Leo XIV, in his first general audience since getting to the Vatican, called for the rebuilding of the facilities necessary to get humanitarian aid delivered urgently. He denounced the awful suffering the civilians caught in the midst of the conflict are enduring, particularly children, the sick, and the elderly that are not being afforded food, medicine, and services.

The pontiff made a strong case that international humanitarian law must override any political or military considerations. His message wasn't just for world leaders, but also for international organizations and humanitarian groups to act in concert to address the humanitarian crisis being faced in Gaza.

The pastoral vision of Pope Leo XIV: peace as a priority

Since his election, Leo XIV has projected a papacy deeply committed to peace and social justice. During his address at St. Peter’s Square, he made clear that his mission is to build bridges between divided communities and advocate for an end to armed conflicts worldwide, starting with Gaza.

The new Pope’s message resonates strongly with the faithful, positioning the Church as an active agent in humanitarian diplomacy. His approach reflects continuity with the Social Doctrine of the Church but adopts a more direct and engaged style towards contemporary crises.

The Vatican's influence on international conflicts

Pope Leo XIV emphasized the Vatican’s role as a spiritual organism, as well as mediating conflict amongst nation-states. With respect to the Israel-Hamas conflict, he reiterated that the Holy See has a capability and responsibility to be a potent voice of peace and reconciliation.

This point re-defines the Catholic experience of world geopolitics and embeds itself in developing diplomatic action to realize peace in war zones. It marks the start of a new international leadership fundamentally focused on the protection of human rights.