Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt plea for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors in war-torn Sudan, urging global action to alleviate the suffering of civilians trapped in the violence. Delivering his appeal during the Sunday Angelus address, the Pope also extended his prayers for peace in Tanzania, which has witnessed deadly unrest following its recent elections.
Expressing deep sorrow over the escalating conflict in Sudan, particularly in the besieged city of El Fasher in North Darfur, Pope Leo condemned the continued atrocities. “I follow with great anguish the tragic reports from Sudan, especially from El Fasher, where innocent lives are being torn apart,” he said. The Pontiff lamented the “indiscriminate attacks on women and children, assaults on unarmed civilians, and deliberate obstruction of humanitarian efforts,” describing them as acts causing “unbearable suffering to a people already drained by months of war.”
Reports from international agencies have confirmed widespread violence in El Fasher, where armed groups have allegedly committed grave human rights violations. In this context, Pope Leo renewed his urgent appeal for an end to hostilities and for aid workers to be granted unhindered access to affected populations.
“Let us pray for the souls of the deceased, for strength to those enduring pain, and for the conversion of those responsible for such devastation,” he implored, calling on world leaders and organizations “to act with resolve and compassion to deliver aid and uphold the dignity of every human being.”
Turning to neighboring Tanzania, the Pope expressed concern over violent clashes that erupted after the country’s recent presidential election. “I invite all to reject every form of violence and embrace dialogue as the only path to peace,” he urged. Following the election, which saw President Samia Suhulu Hassan win by a wide margin amid opposition protests, hundreds were reportedly killed in ensuing unrest. The opposition has since demanded an independent inquiry into the events.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo announced that he would celebrate Mass later in the day at Rome’s Verano Cemetery in remembrance of the departed. “I will pray for my loved ones and for all those forgotten in death,” he said, affirming that “our heavenly Father remembers every soul by name and abandons no one.”
The Pope’s message was a solemn reminder of the Church’s ongoing commitment to peace, justice, and the defense of human dignity amid the world’s deepening humanitarian crises.