Pope Leo broke from his usual restrained tone on Tuesday to voice deep concern over Israel’s latest military strike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar, calling the situation “very serious” and urging renewed efforts toward peace.
Speaking to reporters outside his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, the pontiff addressed the strike in Doha that reportedly aimed at high-ranking Hamas figures, including exiled Gaza chief Khalil al-Hayya.
“There’s some really serious news right now: Israel’s attack on some Hamas leaders in Qatar,” Pope Leo said, emphasizing, “We do not know how things will go. It is really serious.”
The comments marked a rare unscripted moment for Leo, known for his cautious and diplomatic tone, especially when compared to his predecessor, Pope Francis. However, recent weeks have seen Leo increasingly critical of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, especially following his meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, where he expressed sorrow over the “tragic situation in Gaza.”
In response to the broader conflict, Leo urged persistent efforts for dialogue. “We must continue working and insisting on peace,” he told journalists.
The pope also revealed he had attempted to reach Rev. Gabriel Romanelli, the priest of Gaza’s only Catholic Church, though the Vatican has not confirmed if the two were able to connect. Romanelli is known to have maintained close communication with Pope Francis in the past.
