Pope Leo XIV issued a strong plea on Sunday for peace and humanitarian support in Gaza as regional conflicts continue to escalate.

According to the Catholic News Agency, His remarks, delivered during his traditional weekly address from the Vatican, followed the recent deaths of three people at Gaza’s only Catholic church and included appeals for peace across the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Standing at his window above St. Peter’s Square following the Angelus prayer, the pope urged global leaders and armed groups to stop hostilities and release all hostages. His statement comes in the context of a nearly two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has left Gaza heavily impacted by violence and shortages.

Ten days before the pope's address, an Israeli airstrike hit Gaza’s only Catholic church, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. This tragic incident prompted the pontiff’s renewed call for the full observance of international humanitarian law.

He described the ongoing crisis in Gaza as dire, highlighting that many civilians are facing starvation and continued threats to their safety. He stressed the moral responsibility to recognize the worth of every life, stating that actions endangering civilians must end.

Plea for Humanitarian Law and Ceasefire

“I renew my heartfelt appeal for a ceasefire, for the release of hostages, and the full respect for humanitarian law,” Pope Leo XIV said to thousands gathered in the square. He denounced the conditions in Gaza where hunger and violence have devastated the civilian population.

Calling attention to what he called “the very grave humanitarian situation,” he implored those involved in conflicts worldwide to consider the inherent dignity God has granted to every individual. He urged all sides to halt behavior that contradicts this principle.

The pope’s message also extended beyond Gaza, as he voiced deep concern about intensified violence in southern Syria. His repeated calls for peace show the Vatican's increasing engagement with global humanitarian crises across multiple conflict areas.

Concerns Extend to Southeast Asia

In addition to Middle Eastern conflicts, Pope Leo XIV noted instability along the Cambodia-Thailand border. He pointed to ongoing disputes and violent clashes that have created heightened insecurity in the region.

Though his Sunday message focused heavily on war and peace, he also included spiritual teachings and pastoral outreach. Before the Angelus, the pontiff offered reflections on the “Our Father” prayer, drawing lessons from that day’s Gospel reading.

Pope Leo XIV emphasized that prayer must lead to change. Referencing Gospel imagery, he spoke about God's parental nature through stories of a friend helping late at night and a concerned parent acting with love.

Spiritual Message of Transformation and Mercy

“We cannot pray to God as ‘Father’ and then be harsh and insensitive towards others,” he said. “It is important to be transformed by His goodness, patience, and mercy." He noted that divine love requires reflection in human behavior.

He added that the significance of prayer lies not only in words, but in letting divine love guide one’s treatment of others. “The Lord always listens,” he reassured, while recognizing that divine answers may not always be immediately clear.

The Pope reminded listeners that God embraces us even in moments of failure or regret. “God never turns his back,” he said, pointing out that even when people feel late in seeking divine help, mercy is always within reach.

Youth and Elderly Featured in Weekend Messages

After his core message, Pope Leo XIV acknowledged large groups participating in events across the Church. He welcomed young adults from the EWTN Summer Academy, a Catholic media training program, encouraging them in their communications mission.

He also celebrated the fifth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, urging society to honor their experiences and love. “Let us not leave them alone,” he said. “Together, we ally love and prayer.”

In Spanish, the pope greeted thousands attending the Jubilee of Youth, running through the first week of August. He expressed hope that the event would deepen faith and commitment among the next generation.