THE VATICAN – Pope Francis renewed his vehement appeal to release Israeli hostages and to let humanitarian aid reach Gaza.
“I encourage the release of hostages, and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.” With these words, Pope Francis made his latest appeal for the Holy Land.
His remarks came at the conclusion of this morning’s weekly Wednesday General Audience in St. Peter’s Square as he addressed Italian-speaking pilgrims.
“I always think of the grave situation in Palestine and Israel,” the Pope said, as he appealed for the release of Israeli hostages in the hands of Hamas and to facilitate entry of humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip.
The Pope said he continues to pray “for those who suffer and to hope for paths of peace, in the Middle East, in the tormented Ukraine and in other regions wounded by war.”
The Holy Father also invited the faithful to join him in the upcoming Day of Prayer for peace in the world.
“I remind everyone that the day after tomorrow, Friday 27 October, we will live a day of fasting, prayer and penance. At 6 p.m., in St. Peter’s, we will gather to pray to implore peace in the world.
