Pope Leo XIV Again Calls for Peace in the Middle East, Urges Immediate Dialogue to Open

JAKARTA - Pope Leo XIV again called for peace in the Holy Land and throughout the Middle East. The call was made in the Angelus sermon in Castel Gandolfo, Sunday (26/7).

In his Sunday reflection, Pope Leo XIV expressed deep concern over the continued and increasing violence in the region. He also urged all parties to immediately resume dialogue to achieve peace.

"I continue to monitor with great concern the violence that continues and increases in the Holy Land," Pope Leo XIV said.

Pope Leo XIV highlighted the large number of civilians who have been victims in recent times, both in the West Bank and in Gaza.

According to him, all parties involved need to return to the negotiating table to find a just political solution, based on respect for human dignity and equal rights for everyone.

Pope Leo XIV also urged a cessation of further military action. In addition, he called on all parties to avoid unilateral decisions, especially those that could violate the respect and status quo of holy places for all religions.

"I urge all parties involved to stop their attacks and immediately reopen the path of dialogue and diplomacy, so that the peace that the entire region so desires can be achieved immediately," Pope Leo XIV said.