Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Pope Francis has called for an immediate cease-fire in the Middle East, urging leaders to pursue diplomacy and dialogue to achieve peace. The appeal was made on October 13 after the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square.

The conflict in the region continues a year after Hamas militants attacked Israel, resulting in retaliation against Gaza. Fighting has also spread to the Israeli-Lebanese border, with Hezbollah militants involved. Iran fired ballistic missiles at Israel on October 1, and further retaliation is expected.

Pope Francis expressed his solidarity with populations in Palestine, Israel, and Lebanon and urged respect for United Nations peacekeeping forces. Several U.N. peacekeepers were injured recently in Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requested the U.N. to relocate peacekeepers from border areas due to alleged misuse by Hezbollah.

The Pope prayed for victims and displaced individuals across the region and reiterated his call for Hamas to release hostages taken a year ago. He emphasized that war is an illusion leading only to defeat.

In addition to his appeal for the Middle East, Pope Francis addressed issues in Ukraine following a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He called for humanitarian assistance as winter approaches amid Russia's attacks on power infrastructure.

Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi arrived in Moscow on October 14 as part of efforts to reunite Ukrainian children taken to Russia and discuss prisoner exchanges.

Pope Francis also highlighted the situation in Haiti, where gang violence has forced many from their homes since 2020. He encouraged prayers for an end to violence and urged international efforts towards peace and reconciliation.