By Charles Igwe
In his Angelus address on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV strongly denounced a recent resurgence of antisemitic hatred and renewed his call for renewed efforts toward peace in the Middle East, urging a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
Speaking from St. Peter’s Square, the Pope referenced a recent terror attack in Manchester as evidence of growing prejudice, saying, “I express my concern about the rise of antisemitic hatred in the world.” He also voiced sorrow over the suffering in Gaza, affirming that he is “deeply saddened by the immense suffering of the Palestinian people.”
In the context of ongoing peace negotiations, Pope Leo called on all parties and world leaders to commit to “this path, to bring about a ceasefire, and to release the hostages.” He appealed to the global faithful to remain united in prayer so that the war may end and pave the way for a just and lasting peace.
The Pope also turned his thoughts to the victims of a powerful earthquake in the Philippines, expressing solidarity and prayers for those most affected.
His remarks follow a series of earlier calls for restraint and humanitarian respect amid the Israel–Hamas conflict, including appeals against indiscriminate force and for protection of civilians and sacred spaces.
