Pope Leo XIV has issued a powerful appeal for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the escalating humanitarian disaster that has left thousands starving and displaced. Speaking during his weekly general audience at the Vatican on August 27, 2025, the pontiff condemned the ongoing violence and called for the protection of civilians, the release of hostages, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid. He emphasized the necessity of adhering to international humanitarian law, including the prohibition of collective punishment and forced displacement of populations.
The Pope’s remarks come amid a dire situation in Gaza, where health authorities reported that ten Palestinians, including two children, died from starvation in the past 24 hours. This brings the total number of famine-related deaths to 313, with 119 of the victims being children. The United Nations has officially declared a famine in Gaza, warning that without urgent intervention, more people will face severe food insecurity.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israeli military operations have intensified, particularly around Gaza City. Israeli forces targeted Hamas strongholds, resulting in at least 76 additional deaths in the past day. The Israeli government has indicated plans for a new offensive in Gaza City, which is densely populated with about one million residents, raising concerns about civilian safety and mass displacement.
Religious leaders in Gaza have vowed to remain in the region to care for the vulnerable population. Church officials stated that they will continue to provide shelter and assistance to those unable to flee, despite Israeli evacuation orders. They emphasized that forced displacement would be a death sentence for many who are already weakened by hunger and illness.
The international community remains divided over the conflict. While most members of the United Nations Security Council have declared the famine in Gaza a “man-made crisis” and called for an immediate ceasefire, the United States has not fully endorsed these calls. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Qatar acting as a mediator in ceasefire talks, although it has criticized Israel for not seeking a resolution.
Over the last 22 months of conflict, nearly 63,000 Palestinian lives have been lost, with the current siege and military operations worsening the humanitarian situation. Civilians in Gaza have faced repeated displacement, severe shortages of food and medicine, and deteriorating health and sanitary conditions, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
The Pope’s call for peace underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the crisis. He urged all parties to respect human life, facilitate the safe entry of humanitarian aid, and abide by international law. Religious leaders and humanitarian organizations have echoed the pontiff’s appeal, stressing that immediate action is needed to prevent further famine-related deaths.
The situation in Gaza remains tense, with Israeli tanks continuing operations in northern and western sectors of Gaza City, while humanitarian conditions deteriorate. Efforts to evacuate civilians have been hampered by logistical challenges and resistance from those too weak or malnourished to move. Local churches have become critical shelters, providing food, medical aid, and protection to the most vulnerable.
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