Pope renews call for release of Hamas hostages in Gaza Strip

On Sunday, Pope Francis reiterated his plea to the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, urging them to release all hostages taken to the Gaza Strip during the recent attack on Southern Israel.

During his weekly prayers at St. Peter’s Square in Rome, Pope Francis restated his appeal, stating, “I once again call for the release of the hostages, and I vehemently implore that children, the elderly, women, and all innocent civilians do not fall victim to this conflict.”

With the anticipation of an Israeli ground offensive in Gaza, Pope Francis also called for the establishment of humanitarian corridors in the coastal enclave to safeguard the well-being of the entire population.

Hamas is suspected of holding more than 150 hostages who were captured during the recent attack, including both Israelis and citizens from various other countries.

Additionally, Pope Francis emphasized that the suffering of the people of Ukraine, who have been enduring attacks by Russia since February 2022, must not be overlooked.

The Pope concluded by saying, “Enough is enough,” and he added, “War always signifies failure – without exception.”