Pope Leo Condemns Strike On Gaza Church Calls For End To ‘Barbarity Of War

Pope Leo Condemns Strike On Gaza Church Calls For End To ‘Barbarity Of War

Pope Leo XIV condemned the “barbarity” of the ongoing war in Gaza on Sunday, warning against the “indiscriminate use of force.” His remarks came shortly after a deadly Israeli military strike on a Catholic church.

Following a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the day after Thursday’s attack, the Pope expressed his “deep sorrow” over the incident at the Holy Family Church.

The church had been serving as a shelter for about 600 displaced individuals—mostly children, including many with special needs.

In response, Israel expressed “deep sorrow” for the civilian casualties and damage, stating that the military was conducting an investigation into the incident.

“I once again ask for an immediate end to the barbarity of the war and for a peaceful resolution to the conflict,” Leo said at the end of the Angelus prayer at Castel Gandolfo, the papal summer residence near Rome.

“This act, unfortunately, adds to the ongoing military attacks against the civilian population and places of worship in Gaza,” Leo said on Sunday.

“I appeal to the international community to observe humanitarian law and respect the obligation to protect civilians, as well as the prohibition of collective punishment, the indiscriminate use of force, and the forced displacement of populations,” he added.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, the Israeli military issued an evacuation order for Palestinians in central Gaza, signaling impending operations targeting Hamas militants.