Vatican City: During his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful and emotional appeal for peace, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and reinforced protection for innocent children caught in the crossfire. He also reaffirmed his solidarity with the people of Ukraine, decrying the renewed assaults on civilians and infrastructure.Vatican City: During his Wednesday General Audience, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful and emotional appeal for peace, urging an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and reinforced protection for innocent children caught in the crossfire. He also reaffirmed his solidarity with the people of Ukraine, decrying the renewed assaults on civilians and infrastructure.

"Ceasefire now!" the Pope declared emphatically, calling on all parties involved in the Gaza conflict to halt the violence, respect humanitarian law, and prioritize the dignity of human life. He drew attention to the anguished voices rising from the war-torn region — parents mourning their children, families scrambling for food, water, and shelter amid relentless bombardment.

His heartfelt plea followed reports that nearly 50 civilians were injured just a day earlier while trying to access food aid in Gaza. The region has seen intensified Israeli military operations in response to attacks by Palestinian militant groups since October 2023, escalating the already dire humanitarian situation.

Pope Leo also opened his address by expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He lamented the increasing attacks on civilians and vital infrastructure, with waves of Russian missile and drone strikes pounding Ukrainian cities in recent days — the most intense since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.

“My heart turns often to the Ukrainian people,” the Pontiff said, offering prayers and support, especially for families and children suffering from the brutal onslaught. He renewed his call for an end to the violence and encouraged all efforts toward dialogue and peace.

The Pope invited the global community to unite in prayer for all those afflicted by war — in Ukraine, Gaza, and every corner of the world where conflict continues to destroy lives and silence hope.