Pope Leo XIV Calls for Protection of Civilians Amid Gaza Conflict

Vatican city: Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep concerns over the situation in Gaza, urging for the protection of civilians and opposing the forced displacement of Palestinians from the region. During his weekly general audience on Wednesday, he made a heartfelt appeal for the release of hostages, the establishment of a permanent ceasefire, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid into the area. The Pope emphasized the importance of respecting humanitarian law, particularly the protection of civilians and the prohibition of collective punishment and forced displacement.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Pope’s appeal aligns with a joint statement released by the Patriarchs of Jerusalem. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the Greek Orthodox Patriarch, Theophilus III, declared their commitment to remain in Gaza despite Israel’s decision to occupy the Strip. They emphasized their determination to continue caring for those in need within the compounds, stating that fleeing sou
th would be akin to a death sentence. The patriarchs insisted that the future cannot be built on imprisonment, displacement, or revenge.

The clergy highlighted the role of religious compounds, such as the Greek Orthodox compound of San Porfirio and the Holy Family compound, which have become shelters for hundreds of civilians, including the elderly, women, and children. These shelters have also been a refuge for people with disabilities, cared for by the Missionary Sisters of Charity. Many refugees within these compounds are struggling with malnutrition and the hardships of recent months, making the decision to leave particularly perilous.

The Patriarchs echoed Pope Leo XIV’s sentiments, stressing that all peoples must be respected in their identity and rights, especially their right to live in their own land without being forced into exile. They called for an end to the cycle of violence and war, urging the international community to intervene to halt the conflict and work towards the return of missing per
sons and Israeli hostages. The statement concluded with a plea for prioritizing the common good and ending the senseless destruction wrought by the ongoing conflict.