Egypt Daily News – In his first Mass since being elected Supreme Pontiff, the Pope appealed to major world powers to “stop the wars,” expressing his “deep sorrow” over the war in Gaza and saying he carries in his heart “the suffering of the beloved people of Ukraine,” warning of a potential scenario of a third world war.
Before large crowds in Rome, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, on Sunday, May 11, 2025, called for a “true and lasting peace” in Ukraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
The Vatican’s new Pope, who was elected on May 8, also welcomed the ceasefire agreement reached between India and Pakistan the previous night, saying he prays for God to grant the world “the miracle of peace.”
Pope Leo: No More Wars!
The Pope urged “the world’s senior leaders” to stop wars in a speech from the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square, where tens of thousands had gathered to witness his first prayer as Pope.
He declared, “No more wars,” repeating a plea frequently made by his predecessor, the late Pope Francis, and referenced the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, which claimed nearly 60 million lives.
Referring to Ukraine, Pope Leo said today’s world is witnessing “a tragic scenario of a third world war unfolding in stages,” echoing a phrase used by Francis.
The crowd erupted in applause when Pope Leo called for peace. He said he carries in his heart “the suffering of the beloved people of Ukraine,” and urged that “everything possible be done to achieve a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible.” He also called for “the release of all prisoners and the return of children to their families.”
On Gaza and the Hostages
He expressed “deep sorrow” over the war in Gaza, stating that he is “greatly pained by what is happening in the Gaza Strip.” He called for an “immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid to the exhausted civilian population, and the release of all hostages” being held in the territory.
Relief at India-Pakistan Ceasefire
The Pope also shared his joy at the news of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and expressed hope that the upcoming negotiations would lead to a lasting agreement between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. He said, “I received with relief the news of the ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan, and I hope a permanent agreement is soon reached through upcoming talks.” He added, “But there are many other conflicts in the world!”
