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Pope Francis appealed on Sunday for an end to the conflict between Hamas and Israel amid concerns that it could escalate further. He also called for increased humanitarian assistance to be allowed into the Gaza Strip.
“War is always a defeat; it is the destruction of human fraternity. Brothers, stop! Stop!” Pope Francis stated after his traditional Angelus prayer in Saint Peter’s Square in Rome.
He reiterated his plea for the opening of safe spaces, continuous humanitarian aid delivery, and the release of hostages.
On October 7, Hamas militants entered Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in the loss of at least 1,400 lives.
In retaliation, Israel’s bombing campaign has caused the death of more than 4,300 Palestinians, primarily civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. It has also left extensive areas of densely populated Gaza in ruins.
There is mounting concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where access to water, food, and power has been severely restricted by Israel.
Although a small amount of aid reached the besieged Strip on Saturday, United Nations officials have expressed that the 20 trucks allowed to pass are insufficient given the “catastrophic” humanitarian situation affecting 2.4 million people.
While two US hostages were released on Friday, more than 200 individuals abducted by the militants remain in captivity.
