Pope Francis has issued a heartfelt appeal for peace in the Holy Land while addressing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. During the Wednesday General Audience, the Pope expressed his "sorrow and concern" over the war that has erupted in the region.

He lamented the loss of life and injuries suffered by many, saying, "I pray for those families who have seen a day of celebration turn into a day of mourning and ask for the immediate release of the hostages."

The recent escalation began when militants from Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel during the celebration of Simchat Torah, a Jewish holiday. Hamas took several hostages during the incursion and threatened to execute them if Israel targeted areas within the Gaza Strip.

Pope Francis emphasized that while it is the right of those under attack to defend themselves, he expressed deep worry about the "total siege facing the Palestinians in Gaza, where there have also been many innocent victims."

In response, Israel announced a "complete siege" on Gaza, vowing to cut off access to essential resources such as electricity, food, water, and gas. The Pope called on both parties to exercise restraint, with the hope of finding a peaceful solution to the ongoing conflict.

He stressed that "terrorism and extremism do not lead to a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict but rather stoke hatred, violence, and revenge, causing suffering on both sides." Pope Francis concluded his appeal for peace in the Middle East by urging the importance of fraternity and dialogue.

"The Middle East does not require war but peace, a peace founded on justice, dialogue, and the courage of fraternity," he affirmed.