Pope Leo XIV has called on Israel to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid into Gaza, expressing deep concern over the worsening conditions in the Palestinian territory.
During his first weekly general audience on Wednesday in St. Peter’s Square, the newly elected pope described the situation in Gaza as “increasingly distressing and heartbreaking.”
“I once again urge the opening of humanitarian corridors and an immediate end to hostilities, which continue to claim the lives of children, the elderly, and the infirm,” Pope Leo appealed.
Formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8 to succeed the late Pope Francis. Since assuming leadership of the Catholic Church, he has consistently highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The pontiff made his remarks at the conclusion of his prepared address, choosing to add a personal appeal. Although he has been linked to potential peace initiatives, such as hosting Russia-Ukraine negotiations—as mentioned by former U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this week—the pope did not reference that conflict during this address.
In his inaugural Sunday message on May 11, Pope Leo had already called for a ceasefire in Gaza and demanded the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
While Israeli officials announced on Monday their intention to ease an 11-week blockade and permit aid into Gaza, the United Nations reported on Tuesday that no relief had yet reached those in need.
Israel continues its military campaign against Hamas following the militant group’s attack on Israeli communities in October 2023. The government insists that its blockade aims to prevent the diversion of aid by militant groups, a claim Hamas denies.
Strained Vatican-Israel Relations After Francis’ Criticism
The late Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21, had been increasingly vocal in condemning Israel’s military actions in Gaza. In January, he labeled the crisis as “very serious and shameful,” and had previously urged the global community to investigate whether genocide had occurred against the Palestinian people.
These statements led to diplomatic tensions, with Israel choosing to send only its Vatican ambassador—rather than a senior official—to Francis’ funeral, unlike other countries.
However, the presence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog at Pope Leo’s inaugural Mass on Sunday suggests potential efforts to improve relations. A 13-member Jewish delegation, including Rome’s chief rabbi and the vice president of the Italian Union of Jewish Communities, also attended.
Pope Leo, a Chicago-born prelate and the first American pope, addressed the crowd in Italian, English, and Spanish during the audience—his first since Pope Francis’ last appearance on February 12.
