In his first extensive interview with a U.S. network, Pope Francis emphasized the urgent need for peace in the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Speaking through a translator, the Pope called for an end to the wars and advocated for negotiated settlements as preferable to prolonged conflict.
During the interview with CBS News, Pope Francis expressed his deep concern for the suffering caused by the conflicts, particularly highlighting the plight of children in the Middle East and Ukraine. He urged all countries involved in warfare to prioritize negotiations and seek peaceful resolutions.
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“It’s very hard, very, very hard. Food goes in, but they have to fight for it,” he said. “It’s very hard.”
The Pope’s remarks underscored his consistent advocacy for peace and humanitarian aid in regions affected by violence. Notably, he mentioned his regular communication with Gaza to stay informed about the situation and lamented the challenges faced by civilians, including difficulties in accessing essential supplies.
“Please. Countries at war, all of them, stop the war. Look to negotiate. Look for peace,”
Addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict specifically, Pope Francis expressed his willingness to facilitate peace negotiations and emphasized the importance of international efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He acknowledged the devastating impact of the conflict, with thousands of casualties and millions facing the threat of famine.
“A negotiated peace is better than a war without end.”
Despite recent initiatives, such as the U.S. announcement of plans to build a temporary port in Gaza, agencies warn that more substantial measures are needed to alleviate the humanitarian crisis effectively.
Pope Francis’s interview signals his continued commitment to promoting peace and advocating for the vulnerable, urging global leaders to prioritize diplomacy and dialogue in resolving conflicts.