Pope Francis on Sunday called for an immediate respect for the ceasefire in Gaza, coinciding with the start of a truce between Israel and Hamas.
Expressing gratitude to all parties involved in the mediation efforts, the Argentine pontiff underscored the importance of humanitarian aid and the safe return of hostages held by militants.
“I express gratitude to all the mediators,” said Pope Francis shortly after the truce took effect. He remarked, “Thanks to all the parties involved in this important outcome. I hope that, as agreed, it will be immediately respected by the parties and that all the hostages will finally be able to go home to hug their loved ones again.”
The Pope’s remarks come as a total of 33 hostages taken during Hamas’s devastating attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, are scheduled to be returned from Gaza in conjunction with the initial 42-day truce. Under the terms of the agreement, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails are also expected to be released.
Pope Francis expressed his deep concern for the families of the hostages and called for swift delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, who are facing dire needs amid ongoing conflict. “Both Israelis and Palestinians need clear signs of hope,” he emphasized, urging political leaders on both sides, with support from the international community, to pursue a viable two-state solution.
“May everyone say yes to dialogue, yes to reconciliation, yes to peace,” he concluded, invoking a sense of urgency and unity in the quest for stability in the region.
The truce marks a pivotal moment in more than 15 months of conflict that has led to significant loss of life and humanitarian crises. It follows extensive negotiations facilitated by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, signaling a cautious hope for progress in the region.
