Pope declares support for ceasefire proposal, renews calls for more aid to Gaza

Addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square for the Sunday noon blessing, Pope Francis addressed the war between Israel and Hamas, expressing support for the latest ceasefire proposal and the urgent need for a increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“I encourage the international community to act urgently, by all means, to help the war-weary people of Gaza,” he said, adding that he hopes the agreement “will be accepted immediately in the interest of peace.” Palestinians and Israelis.

Francis has publicly commented on the conflict several times since the war erupted eight months ago following the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack, previously calling for a ceasefire and the release of all Israeli hostages remaining detained in Gaza.

In April, the Vatican welcomed the hostage relatives for an audience with Francis.

Francis also thanked Jordan for organizing and hosting an upcoming conference on humanitarian aid on behalf of Gazans.

He noted that Sunday marked the 10^th anniversary of a prayer for peace he led with former Israeli President Shimon Peres and Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.

“This meeting showed that shaking hands is possible and that to make peace requires courage, much more courage than to make war,” Francis proclaimed.