Pope urges world leaders to commit to Gaza peace deal

Image: Vatican Media

Source: Vatican Media

Speaking at the close of Mass in St Peter's Square Pope Leo XIV called on political leaders to "commit themselves" to the ongoing Israel-Hamas peace negotiations, which he said have recently shown "significant steps forward".

The Pope expressed his hope that the deal would be finalised "as soon as possible", and urged his listeners to "remain united in prayer" for a "just and lasting peace".

Pope Leo said he "continued to be saddened" by the "immense suffering" of Palestinians in Gaza, and greeted a group of pilgrims from Bethlehem.

He also voiced his concern over "the rise of antisemitic hatred in the world", mentioning in particular Thursday's attack on a synagogue in Manchester.

Sunday's Mass was dedicated to the Jubilee of the Missions and Migrants. Pope Leo also thanked all those who attended, in spite of the light rain.

"The Church is entirely missionary," Pope Leo said, noting that "our missionary and migrant brothers and sisters remind us of this."

He added that "no one should be forced to flee, nor exploited or mistreated because of their situation as foreigners or people in need! Human dignity must always come first."

Read the prepared text of the Pope's address:
www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/angelus/2025/documents/20251005-angelus.html

Watch the Mass and Angelus on the Vatican Youtube channel: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BWZ--qNA4R8