Long Live the Pope! In his first Sunday address from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, Leo XIV mentioned the sufferings in Gaza and the near-war situation in Indian subcontinent
In his first Sunday address at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful appeal to world leaders, calling for an end to armed conflicts and a renewed commitment to global peace.
Speaking from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, the newly elected pontiff said:
“The immense tragedy of the Second World War ended 80 years ago. Today, we are witnessing the unfolding of a third world war, fought piecemeal. I appeal once again to the powerful of the world: no more war.”
Addressing the faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square and millions watching around the globe, Pope Leo echoed the enduring cry of his predecessor, Pope Francis, urging leaders to act for the common good in a time of global unrest.
Reflecting on contemporary conflicts, Pope Leo expressed deep sorrow over the suffering in Ukraine, called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and welcomed the agreement announced Saturday to end recent hostilities between India and Pakistan.
POPE LEO XIV: “I am deeply pained by what is happening (in Gaza). Let the fighting stop now. Let humanitarian aid reach the exhausted civilian population. May all hostages be freed.”
“I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he said. “Let every effort be made to secure a true, just, and lasting peace. May all prisoners be released, and may the children be returned to their families.”
Turning to Gaza, he spoke with visible emotion: “I am deeply pained by what is happening. Let the fighting stop now. Let humanitarian aid reach the exhausted civilian population. May all hostages be freed.”
Pope Leo also commended the diplomatic breakthrough between India and Pakistan:
“I welcome the ceasefire announcement and pray that upcoming negotiations may lead to a lasting agreement.” Yet, he acknowledged the broader crisis: “How many other conflicts are still tearing our world apart?”
Entrusting his message to the Virgin Mary, Pope Leo recited the traditional Regina Caeli prayer, invoking her intercession as “Queen of Peace”, and asking for “the miracle of peace” to be granted to all nations.
The pontiff was elected on Thursday following a two-day conclave convened after the death of Pope Francis. On Saturday, he visited a shrine outside Rome and prayed before his predecessor’s tomb at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore.
Pope Leo XIV will be formally inaugurated at a public Mass in St Peter’s Square on 18 May.
