The Pope held his traditional Wednesday general audience in the Vatican’s famous St. Peter’s Square, where he commented on the latest developments in Gaza.
Stating that there can be no peace without justice, the Pope said: “Sad news continues to come from the Middle East. I reiterate my firm demand for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. I am also deeply saddened by the killing of volunteers distributing humanitarian aid in Gaza. I reiterate my call to ensure access to humanitarian aid for the exhausted and suffering people and to release the hostages as soon as possible.”
Noting the risk of conflict spreading to the region, Pope Francis said, “Let us avoid any behavior that could deepen the conflict in the region. Let us work and pray for an end to these and similar wars that continue to bring death and suffering to many parts of the world.”
