Pope Francis Renews Call for Ceasefire in Gaza: "Guns Will Not Bring Peace"

Pope Francis has once again made an impassioned plea for the cessation of hostilities in Gaza. Speaking from St. Peter's Square in the Vatican after the Angelus prayer, the Pontiff demanded an immediate end to the conflict and underscored the sanctity of every human life, declaring that "guns will never bring peace."

The Vatican Radio website quoted the Pope urging for prompt assistance to the wounded and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid. He stressed that children, the sick, the elderly, women, and all civilians should not become casualties of conflict, emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights in Gaza.

Previously, the Pope reflected on the dire situation in both Palestine and Israel, mourning the loss of life and beseeching all parties to "stop the gunfire." He expressed hope for the exploration of every avenue to prevent further escalation and highlighted the critical urgency of the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Pope Francis also called for the immediate release of hostages, including many children, to return to their families. He implored the public to consider the children trapped not only in the war in Gaza but also in Ukraine and other conflicts, stating that their futures are being stolen by these hostilities.