- Written by Thomas Mackintosh
- bbc news
Pope Francis used his traditional Easter message to call for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
The 87-year-old pope led Easter Mass in front of thousands of people at the Vatican despite health concerns.
Referring to conflicts around the world, the Pope urged people not to “give in to the logic of arms and rearmament.”
“Peace is never made with weapons, but with outstretched hands and open hearts,” he said.
Tens of thousands of worshipers gathered in St. Peter's Square to hear the pope speak.
As new cease-fire negotiations are scheduled to begin between Israel and Hamas, Pope Francis reiterated his appeal for humanitarian access to Gaza to be ensured, and for the prompt release of the hostages taken on October 7th. We call for another ceasefire.” Immediate ceasefire on the Strip.
Regarding the impact of war on civilians, including children, he said: “How much suffering we see in their eyes! With their eyes they ask us: Why? Why so much death? Why so much destruction? War is always There is.” Absurdity and defeat. ”
Pope Francis also warned countries not to rearm and spoke about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, just over two years after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of its neighbor.
“In calling for respect for the principles of international law, I express my hope for a general exchange of all prisoners of war between Russia and Ukraine,” the Pope said.
The war in Gaza began after Hamas carried out an unprecedented attack in southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking about 253 hostages.
Israel launched a retaliatory operation, saying its aim was to wipe out Hamas. Since then, 32,782 Palestinians have been killed and 75,298 injured, according to the Hamas-led Health Ministry.
Easter Sunday is a major part of the Catholic calendar, with 1.3 billion people around the world celebrating Easter.
On Sunday, Pope Francis was assisted in a wheelchair as he greeted cardinals celebrating Easter Mass.
He then traveled around St. Peter's Square in the Popemobile, waving to the large crowd.
Two days ago, Pope Francis presided over Good Friday services in St. Peter's Basilica, but he skipped the traditional procession and procession of the Crucifixion at Rome's Colosseum to protect his health, the Vatican announced.
The Vatican said in a statement that the pope had decided to rest as a precaution.
But on Saturday, he attended a two-hour Easter Vigil, during which he read a lengthy sermon.