Pope Leo: Israel's attack on Hamas in Qatar marks a 'very serious situation'

Image: Vatican Media

Source: Vatican News

Pope Leo was asked by journalists for his reaction to news of Israel's bombing in Doha, Qatar, as he left his residence in Castel Gandolfo to return to the Vatican on Tuesday. He described it as "very serious news", expressing his deep concern over the developments following the Israeli bombing, which it said was targeting some Hamas leaders there. The attack hit several residential buildings in the capital.

Stopping for a few moments in front of the gate, while a long line of people applauded and greeted him, Pope Leo expressed his concern over the situation in the Middle East: "The whole situation is truly serious," he said. "We don't know where things are headed. It's always serious. We must pray a lot and keep working, searching, insisting on peace."

As for Israel's immediate evacuation order to residents of Gaza City ahead of a potential escalation in military operations, the Pope explained that he had tried to contact the parish priest of the Holy Family Church, Father Gabriel Romanelli: "I tried to call the parish priest just now; I have no news," he said. "They were certainly okay before, but after this new order, I'm not sure."

Pope Leo then greeted the crowds gathered before returning to the Vatican. He had arrived in Castel Gandolfo the previous evening and spent the morning and early afternoon there, carrying out his activities on a day with no scheduled audiences.