Pope Francis laments the desperate humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for an immediate ceasefire in his Christmas message.
He expresses grief for the victims of the October 7 attack and urgently appeals for the liberation of hostages held since then.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza:
The Pope highlights the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, with 85% of the population displaced, nearly three months after the war between Israel and Hamas began. He emphasizes the need for a solution through the provision of humanitarian aid.
The war, initiated by Hamas on October 7, has resulted in over 1,140 people killed in Israel and approximately 20,424 casualties in Gaza, primarily women and children, according to the latest toll.
The battle has led to widespread displacement and dire conditions for the affected population.
Call for International Support:
Pope Francis calls for sincere and persevering dialogue between Israel and Palestine, supported by strong political will and international community support. He urges resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through peaceful means.
The Pope extends his prayers for peace in various global conflicts, including Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, Ukraine, Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Sahel region, the Horn of Africa, Sudan, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, and the Korean peninsula.
Christmas Message Emphasizes Peace:
In his Christmas Eve message, the Pope emphasized peace in the Holy Land, expressing concern about war preventing the Prince of Peace from finding room in the world. He calls for an end to futile logic and conflict, especially during Christmas.
Pope Francis calls on people of goodwill to find ways to resolve social and political conflicts, combat poverty, reduce inequality, and address migration issues in the Americas.
