Pope Francis condemned the "desperate humanitarian situation for Palestinians in Gaza" in his Christmas message on Monday, calling for "an end to military operations in the war between Israel and Hamas, and the release of prisoners still detained in the Strip." He stated, "The children who die in wars, including in Gaza, are 'the little Jesus today' and the Israeli strikes there are leading to a 'horrific toll' on innocent civilians."
In his message to Rome and the world for Christmas, Pope Francis also described the attack by Hamas militants on Israel on October 7 as "odious," and once again called for the release of around 100 hostages still held in Gaza. He continued, "I renew my urgent appeal for the release of the hostages who are still held. I implore that military operations and their terrifying consequences, resulting in the death of innocent civilians, be stopped, and I ask that the desperate humanitarian situation be addressed by allowing aid to reach those in need."
Regarding Lebanon, the Pope said, "I pray for urgent stability to reach Lebanon."
