Pope Francis Asks For Concrete Action To Stop Attacks In Ukraine And Gaza

JAKARTA - Pope Francis has called for concrete new steps to end the war in Ukraine and Gaza after attacks targeted children's hospitals in Kyiv and schools in Gaza.

The Vatican press office issued a statement on Tuesday, July 9, expressing Pope Francis' pain at the new attacks and his deep disappointment at the escalating violence.

"While he expressed his closeness to the victims and innocent injured victims, he hopes and prays that concrete roads can be identified to end this ongoing conflict," the statement said.

Pope Francis has frequently asked for prayers for people who are'martyr' in Ukraine, but tend to keep his petition public.

He also tends to take a balanced stance on the war in Gaza, often calling Israel and the hostages who are still being held by Hamas in addition to the suffering of Palestinians.

As previously reported, a Russian missile hit an Okhmadyt child hospital on Monday, July 8, sparking international protests.

Russia denies responsibility, insisting it does not attack civilian targets in Ukraine despite much evidence stating otherwise, including the Associated Press report.

In Gaza, Israel's attack last week on schools hosting Palestinian refugees killed more than 30 people, according to local health officials.

The Israeli military said Hamas militants were operating from within the school.