Pope Leo XIV has renewed his call for the protection of civilians and respect for International Humanitarian Law in a phone conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, amid mounting violence and a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank.
In the conversation, the Pope emphasized the urgent need to safeguard civilians, ensure the inviolability of sacred sites, and oppose any forced transfer of populations.
“Given the tragic humanitarian situation,” the Vatican said in a statement, “emphasis was placed on the urgent need to provide assistance to those most vulnerable to the consequences of the conflict and to allow the adequate entry of humanitarian aid.”
The Pope also marked the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Agreement between the Holy See and the State of Palestine, signed on June 26, 2015, and in force since January 2, 2016, calling the occasion “auspicious” in the context of promoting peace and dialogue.
His appeal comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that Israeli military operations in central Gaza have severely compromised its ability to function, with key facilities, including a staff residence and a main warehouse in Deir al-Balah, attacked and destroyed.
According to WHO, Israeli forces mistreated civilians who had been sheltering at their facilities.
The raid marks the first major Israeli ground operation in Deir al-Balah since the war began and has forced tens of thousands to flee.
On Sunday, the Israeli military ordered the immediate evacuation of six city blocks, displacing an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 people, directing them toward the al-Mawasi area in southern Gaza.
The situation is growing increasingly dire. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reported that at least 33 people, including 12 children, have died from malnutrition in the past 48 hours alone.
UN officials warn that Gaza’s “last lifelines” are collapsing, with humanitarian conditions deteriorating at what they describe as an “accelerating” pace.
Pope Leo XIV’s call adds to growing international concern over the civilian toll of the conflict, as diplomatic and humanitarian actors continue to urge for an immediate de-escalation and safe access for aid.
By Vatican
22nd July 2025
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