Pope Leo XIV Urges Gaza Aid, Offers Peace Talks

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, used his inaugural general audience at St. Peter’s Square to call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and for dignified humanitarian aid to reach the enclave, emphasizing the suffering of vulnerable populations. He highlighted the critical shortages of food and medicine, urging both sides to allow adequate assistance despite recent increases in deliveries, which agencies say remain insufficient. The pope’s appeal comes amid ongoing Israeli military operations and mounting civilian casualties in Gaza. In a significant expansion of his peace efforts, Pope Leo XIV also reaffirmed the Vatican’s readiness to host ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine. His message, delivered in multiple languages to a crowd of about 40,000, reflects an early commitment to global diplomacy and compassion. The pope’s interventions are seen as a continuation of Vatican concern for humanitarian crises worldwide.