Pope Calls for Release of Hostages Held by Hamas, Expresses Concern Over Gaza Blockade

Pope Francis on Wednesday urged the Palestinian Islamic resistance movement (Hamas) to release all hostages taken during the attack on Israel earlier this week, and he expressed deep concern about the "strict blockade" imposed on Palestinians in Gaza. During his weekly audience, he said, “I am praying for those families who have seen their holiday turn into a day of mourning, and I demand the immediate release of the hostages.” Referring to Israel's response to Hamas, Pope Francis stated, “Those who are under attack have the right to defend themselves, but I am very concerned about the strict blockade in which the Palestinians in Gaza are living, where many innocent victims have also fallen.”