In a poignant address during the Angelus on the Solemnity of the Assumption, Pope Francis has once again voiced his deep concern over the ongoing crisis in Gaza, labeling the violence against unarmed civilians as “terrorism.”
The Pope’s comments, delivered on August 15, 2024, underscored the Vatican’s stance on the conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and humanitarian aid to the afflicted.
Pope Francis highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where the health ministry has reported over 40,000 killed and more than92,400 wounded.
The Pope’s call for a ceasefire comes amidst reports that up to 21,000 children might be missing or buried in unmarked graves due to the conflict.
“I continue to receive serious and painful news from Gaza,” the Pope lamented, referring to incidents where unarmed civilians, including a mother and her daughter, were killed by sniper fire while seeking refuge.
The Pope’s appeal is not new. Earlier, he has pleaded for an end to the violence. He had also called for the liberation of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and urged for an immediate ceasefire. His Christmas Day message in 2023 also highlighted the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire, calling for peace and the freeing of hostages.
This latest condemnation from Pope Francis comes at a time when negotiations for a ceasefire are reportedly ongoing in Doha.