Pope Leo Again Calls For End Of War In Gaza

Pope Leo XIV/DOK PHOTO via Instagram @pontifex

JAKARTA - Pope Leo delivered a "hard call" to the global community to end the nearly two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas. Pope Leo called for a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the provision of humanitarian aid.

"I once again convey a strong appeal that the conflict in the Holy Land, which has caused so much terror, destruction and death, will end soon," the Pope said in a weekly audience at the Vatican.

"I ask that all hostages be released, a permanent ceasefire is reached, humanitarian aid can enter safely, and international humanitarian law is fully respected," he said.

Currently, Israel has not yet responded to a ceasefire proposal for Hamas-approved Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israelis staged protests to pressure their government to accept the deal and secure the release of hostages in the region.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet responded to the proposal, which states that about half of the remaining 50 hostages will be released during the 60-day ceasefire. Instead, Israel continues its plans to expand military operations in Gaza.

"The decision now rests with Israel, which does not appear willing to reach an agreement," Qatar Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al Ansari told a news conference.

"We call on the international community to pressure Israel," Al Ansari added, adding Israel's escalation on the ground would not produce positive results.