The Pope pleaded for a stop to “the passions that are killing everyone” and for peace, calling for an end to terrorism.
Following his discussions, which were scheduled before the announcement of the Israeli-Hamas hostage arrangement and a brief cease-fire, Francis spoke about the suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians.
The agreement, which was the largest diplomatic achievement since the war broke out after Hamas’ invasion of southern Israel on October 7, was not mentioned by the Pope.
Francis claimed to have met a delegation of Palestinians whose relatives are detained in Israel as well as the relatives of some of the more than 200 captives being held in Gaza.
People wearing Palestinian flags and scarves, together with miniature posters depicting what appeared to be bodies in a ditch with the word “Genocide” written underneath, were seen in the VIP seats of St. Peter’s Square.
Francis said: “Here we’ve gone beyond war. This isn’t war anymore, this is terrorism. Please, let us go ahead with peace. Pray for peace, pray a lot for peace.”
Additionally, he begged God to assist the Israelites and the Palestinians in “resolving problems and not going ahead with passions that are killing everyone in the end.”
Francis has urged an end to the violence on several occasions while attempting to uphold the Vatican’s customary diplomatic neutrality in disputes.
The situation of the Christians in Gaza especially worries the Vatican.