Pope Leo XIV used his first Sunday public address to issue an urgent call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and renewed appeals for peace in war-torn Ukraine, marking a strong continuation of the Vatican’s tradition of peace advocacy. Addressing tens of thousands of worshippers gathered at St. Peter’s Square on May 11, 2025, the newly elected pontiff expressed deep sorrow over the human suffering caused by ongoing global conflicts and emphasized the dire need for humanitarian intervention.
From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV—who made history earlier this year as the first American to ascend to the papacy—delivered a heartfelt plea, urging world leaders to bring an end to the violence in Gaza. “I join the international community in calling for an immediate ceasefire,” he said, referring directly to the ongoing Israeli assault and the humanitarian crisis in the besieged Palestinian enclave. He demanded that all hostages held by Hamas be released and stressed the importance of humanitarian access for the suffering civilian population.
Echoing the themes of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who was widely known for his vocal advocacy for peace and compassion for the vulnerable, Pope Leo made it clear that he intends to maintain the Vatican’s strong moral position on issues of war and justice. He framed his appeal not only as a call for diplomacy but also as a spiritual and ethical responsibility, encouraging believers around the world to pray for peace and justice.
Turning his attention to Eastern Europe, Pope Leo XIV also lamented the continued devastation in Ukraine, which remains locked in a brutal war with Russia. “We must never tire of praying and working for peace,” he told the faithful, calling on both sides to pursue negotiations that could lead to what he described as “an authentic, just, and lasting peace.”
In a notable gesture, the pope also acknowledged a recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, hailing it as a glimmer of hope amid a bleak international landscape. “Wherever peace breaks through, even briefly, it shows us that dialogue and reconciliation are always possible,” he said, commending diplomatic efforts and urging other nations to follow suit.
Throughout the address, Pope Leo XIV struck a tone of humility, compassion, and global concern. He mourned the countless lives lost not only in Gaza and Ukraine but in numerous conflicts around the world that receive far less international attention. Without naming specific regions, he spoke broadly about the suffering of innocent civilians, the displacement of families, and the moral failure of the international community to stop the violence.
The pope’s message was well-received by the massive crowd, estimated at over 100,000, many of whom traveled from around the world to witness his first Sunday appearance. Vatican officials confirmed that Pope Leo will continue to prioritize humanitarian advocacy and interfaith dialogue as central pillars of his papacy.
His remarks served as a sobering reminder of the Vatican’s continued influence as a voice of conscience in global affairs. With wars raging across multiple continents and a growing refugee crisis, Pope Leo’s debut message signaled not only continuity with past leadership but also a commitment to renewed moral clarity and active engagement on the world stage.
As the world watches to see how Pope Leo XIV will shape the Catholic Church in the years to come, his early emphasis on global peace, justice, and humanitarian responsibility offers a glimpse into a papacy deeply engaged with the pressing crises of our time.
Source; Al Jazeera
