During his customary Christmas Day address, Pope Francis called for an immediate halt to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
He emphasized the critical need for increased aid to alleviate the distressing humanitarian conditions in the region.
The Pope lamented the violence that erupted on October 7 between Israel and Hamas, causing a significant loss of life and resulting in numerous hostages.
Addressing a congregation at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, he expressed deep sorrow for the victims and urged for the prompt release of those still in captivity, urging an end to the military actions causing harm to innocent civilians.
He stressed the necessity for humanitarian aid to alleviate the dire situation.
Israel has reported that approximately 132 individuals are still being held captive in Gaza, following the release of some hostages and the rescue of one during a temporary ceasefire last month.
Pope Francis extended his concerns beyond the Gaza conflict, expressing a desire for peace in Ukraine, which has been embroiled in a conflict with Russia for nearly two years.
He also voiced hopes for stability in war-torn countries like Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen, while advocating for peaceful resolutions in other global hotspots including Armenia, Azerbaijan, parts of Africa, and the Korean Peninsula.
Moreover, the Pope emphasized the plight of millions of migrants worldwide, highlighting the tragedies faced by those who embark on perilous journeys in search of hope, referring to them as “the little Jesuses of today.”
Source-BBC
