Pope Leo supports ceasefire proposal, laments antisemitism and Gaza's suffering

Pope Leo XIV has expressed concern over both antisemitism and the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza, and he said he hopes that the proposed ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza War comes to fruition.

In his Sunday Angelus address Oct. 5, Pope Leo began by greeting pilgrims and those in Rome for the Jubilee celebration for missionaries and migrants. He joked that they were good missionaries because they were in attendance despite the rain in St. Peter’s Square.

The Pope shared words of kindness for the people of the Philippines in the wake of a major earthquake Sept. 30.

He then both spoke out against antisemitism and lamented the burdens born by the people of Gaza.

“I express my concern about the rise of antisemitic hatred in the world, as unfortunately we saw with the terrorist attack in Manchester a few days ago,” he said. “I continue to be saddened by the immense suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza.”

“In recent hours,” he went on, “in the dramatic situation in the Middle East, some significant steps forward have been taken in peace negotiations, which I hope will achieve the desired results as soon as possible. I ask all those in positions of responsibility to commit themselves to this path, to bring about a ceasefire and to release the hostages.”

The Pontiff then urged continued prayer for peace, particularly commending the Rosary.

“At the same time, I urge everyone to remain united in prayer, so that the ongoing efforts may put an end to the war and lead us towards a just and lasting peace,” he said. “In this month of October, as we contemplate with Mary the mysteries of Christ our Savior, let us deepen our prayer for peace: a prayer that becomes concrete solidarity with those people tormented by war.”

>> Pope Leo invites faithful to pray the Rosary every day of October for peace <<