Vatican City: At his first General Audience in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV delivered a fervent call for peace and mercy amid the deepening crisis in Gaza. With visible emotion, he implored world leaders and the international community to facilitate the entry of essential humanitarian aid and bring a halt to the violence that continues to devastate the most vulnerable.
“I renew my appeal to allow the entry of dignified humanitarian aid and to put an end to the hostilities, whose heartbreaking price is paid by the children, elderly, and the sick,” the Pope urged, addressing Italian pilgrims during the closing moments of the gathering on May 21.
Pope Leo described the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza as “increasingly painful and alarming.” His remarks came against the backdrop of growing international concern, with the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) warning of an impending famine. Aid agencies have reported that the situation has reached catastrophic levels.
On May 20, deadly airstrikes intensified the crisis further, with many civilians—among them children—losing their lives. Since the outbreak of conflict in October 2023, tens of thousands have perished, and countless others remain displaced or at risk.
While some aid trucks have been permitted to enter Gaza, restrictions remain severe. The Pope’s words echoed growing global criticism directed at Israel’s ongoing military campaign and the dire limitations on humanitarian access.
The destruction is not only measured in lives lost but also in homes reduced to rubble. The United Nations has voiced deep concern over the unprecedented scale of structural devastation in the territory.
As he concluded his plea, Pope Leo invoked the memory of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who died one month earlier on April 21. “Let us remember, with deep gratitude, Pope Francis, a shepherd of peace,” he said, linking his call for compassion and aid to the values his predecessor held dear.
With his urgent appeal, Pope Leo XIV positioned his papacy on a foundation of mercy, justice, and the unwavering defense of the voiceless. His words resonated as a spiritual mandate to the world: where bombs fall, let aid rise; where suffering reigns, let compassion intervene.