The Pope called for an end to hostilities and the provision of humanitarian aid to the people of the Middle East. He expressed concern over the continued suffering of civilians in Gaza and other Palestinian territories. Pope Francis noted that all nations have the right to peaceful existence, and their borders must be respected. The Pope announced October 7 as a day of prayer and fasting for peace in the world.
This is reported by vaticannews.va.
“Tomorrow marks a year since the terrorist attack on the population of Israel, to which I renew my closeness. Let us not forget that there are still many hostages in Gaza, and I call for their immediate release,” Pope Francis said as he began his address after reciting the Angelus prayer on Sunday, October 6, 2024.
Recalling the terrible terrorist attack, the Holy Father noted that since that day “the Middle East has plunged into ever greater suffering” caused by hostilities that “do not cease to affect the Palestinian population,” which “suffers greatly in Gaza and other territories.” “These are mostly innocent civilians who should receive all necessary humanitarian aid. I call for an immediate ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon. We pray for the Lebanese, especially for the residents of the south, who are forced to flee their settlements,” the Pope said, adding:
“I call on the international community to end the spiral of revenge and stop any further attacks like the one carried out by Iran a few days ago, which could plunge the region into an even bigger war. All nations have the right to exist in peace and security, and their territories should not be attacked or invaded, sovereignty should be respected and guaranteed through dialogue and peace, not hatred and war.”
Therefore, the Holy Father further noted that “in this situation, prayer is needed more than ever”, and reminded that in the evening in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, with his participation, a prayer to the Mother of God would be held, and tomorrow will be a day of prayer and fasting for peace in the world. “Let us unite with the power of Good against the diabolical machinations of war,” he urged.
Eaelier, Pope Francis announced the names of the 21 new cardinals, among them a bishop of the UGCC from Ukraine.
