Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt appeal to the international community, urging an immediate end to armed conflicts around the world and a renewed commitment to safeguarding the dignity of all human beings, particularly civilians caught in war zones.
Speaking after the Angelus prayer on Sunday, 27 July 2025, in St. Peter’s Square, the Sovereign Pontiff invoked the intercession of Mary, Queen of Peace, for “the innocent victims of conflicts and the rulers who have the power to put an end to them.”
He extended his solidarity to displaced populations, children, and families devastated by ongoing violence, notably along the Thai-Cambodian border, in southern Syria, and in the Gaza Strip.
“Every human person has an intrinsic dignity bestowed upon them by God himself. I urge the parties involved in all conflicts to recognize this dignity and to stop any action contrary to it,” Pope Leo XIV declared, urging warring parties to engage in negotiations as the only path toward lasting peace.
Addressing the deepening crisis in Gaza, the Pontiff expressed alarm over the “extremely grave humanitarian situation” afflicting the enclave.
He lamented that “the civilian population is crushed by hunger and continues to be exposed to violence and death,” calling for urgent humanitarian relief and the unconditional release of Israeli hostages abducted by Hamas on 7 October 2023.
He further stressed the imperative of “full respect for humanitarian law” by all parties involved.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV voiced hope that “the Prince of Peace would inspire everyone to seek dialogue and reconciliation,” appealing directly to world leaders to prioritize negotiation over confrontation as they address global conflicts.
His appeal comes at a time of heightened tensions and humanitarian crises across multiple regions, reinforcing the Vatican’s call for moral responsibility and international solidarity in the pursuit of peace.
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