Jerusalem: Pope Leo XIV has joined the voices of the Latin and Greek Orthodox Patriarchs of Jerusalem in a renewed call for peace in Gaza, urging an immediate end to the war and the unhindered flow of humanitarian aid into the embattled enclave.
On Tuesday, August 26, the Patriarchs of Jerusalem issued a joint appeal condemning the “deliberate and forcible mass displacement of civilians”, stressing that the cycle of violence must end. The following day, Pope Leo XIV amplified their message, recalling the recent Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace observed worldwide on August 22.
“Today I renew a strong appeal both to the parties involved and to the international community, that an end be put to the conflict in the Holy Land, which has caused so much terror, destruction, and death,” Pope Leo declared.
The Holy Father pressed for the release of hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and the protection of civilians, while insisting on strict respect for humanitarian law. He underscored the prohibitions against collective punishment, indiscriminate use of force, and forced displacement of populations, calling these grave violations of international norms.
Invoking Mary, Queen of Peace, Pope Leo concluded: “May her intercession obtain reconciliation and peace in that land so dear to us all.”
Meanwhile, Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Patriarch Theophilos III, head of the Greek Orthodox Church in Jerusalem, reminded the world of the heavy toll borne by civilians. “There has been enough devastation, in the territories and in people’s lives. It is now time for the healing of the long-suffering families on all sides,” they wrote in their appeal.
Their statement also recalled their recent pastoral visit to Gaza, following the deadly strike on the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza City, which killed three and injured several. Together with St. Porphyrius Orthodox Church, these Christian sanctuaries have sheltered hundreds of civilians since the outbreak of the war on October 7, 2023.
The Patriarchs warned that no sustainable peace can be built on captivity, displacement, or revenge, urging a conversion of hearts to walk in the “paths of justice and life, for Gaza and the entire Holy Land.”