Brief by Shorts91 NewsDesk / 05:02pm on 21 May 2025,Wednesday International
In his inaugural public audience at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, appealed for peace in Gaza and urged Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the enclave. Addressing a crowd of 40,000, he emphasized the suffering of civilians, particularly children, the elderly, and the sick. Pope Leo, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost of Chicago, reiterated his call for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas. His appeal comes amid ongoing hostilities and a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The pontiff's message aligns with his broader commitment to global peace, as he also reaffirmed the Vatican's offer to mediate ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine. (PC: Catholic Bishops’ Conference)
