Pope Francis on Sunday urgently appealed for an end to the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. Speaking after his traditional Angelus prayer at Saint Peter’s Square, the pontiff stated, “War is always a defeat, it is a destruction of human fraternity. Brothers, stop! Stop!”
The 86-year-old Pope also emphasized the need for humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip, saying, “I renew my call for spaces to be opened, for humanitarian aid to continue to arrive and for hostages to be freed.”
On October 7, Hamas militants initiated an incursion into Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in the death of at least 1,400 individuals.
In response, Israel launched a bombing campaign, which, as per the Hamas-run health ministry, has led to the death of over 4,300 Palestinians, the majority being civilians. This has also resulted in extensive damage to the densely populated regions of Gaza.
Due to the conflict, Gaza is facing a potential humanitarian crisis, with Israel cutting off vital resources like water, food, and power. While a small amount of aid was allowed into Gaza on Saturday, UN officials believe it is insufficient given the dire circumstances faced by the 2.4 million residents.
In related news, while two US hostages were released on Friday, over 200 individuals taken by the militants remain captive.