Pope Leo Highlights Gaza Suffering and Urges Global Peace in Christmas Message

Pope Leo Highlights Gaza Suffering and Urges Global Peace in Christmas Message
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Pope Leo used his Christmas sermon to draw attention to the humanitarian conditions facing Palestinians in Gaza, making an unusually direct appeal during the traditionally spiritual service, Reuters reported. The pontiff reflected on the nativity story to emphasise solidarity with vulnerable people living in hardship and displacement.

Referring to Jesus being born in a stable, Leo said God had chosen to dwell among humanity’s fragility, prompting him to highlight families sheltering in tents in Gaza amid cold and harsh weather. The pope, celebrating his first Christmas since his election in May, generally maintains a reserved and diplomatic tone in public addresses.

Later in the day, Leo also spoke about the plight of migrants and refugees, particularly those crossing the American continent, a recurring theme of his papacy. Without naming political leaders, he reiterated that ignoring the poor and those seeking refuge amounted to turning away from core Christian values.

The pope again expressed concern over the conflict in Gaza, saying war leaves behind devastation and deep wounds among civilian populations. He noted that nearly all of Gaza’s residents have been displaced despite a ceasefire agreed earlier this year, while aid agencies continue to warn of insufficient humanitarian assistance.

During his traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, Leo called for an end to wars worldwide, citing conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Mali, Myanmar, and border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia. He urged dialogue, reconciliation, and international engagement to restore peace and prevent further suffering.