Pope Francis was a strong supporter of Palestine, called for Gaza ceasefire in final speech – Gaza’s Catholic community

Pope Francis was a strong supporter of Palestine, called for Gaza ceasefire in final speech – Gaza’s Catholic community

Gaza, April 21, 2025 – According to a report by Al Jazeera, deep mourning has descended upon Gaza’s Christian Catholic community following the death of Pope Francis. He was regarded as one of the bravest global leaders who consistently condemned Israel’s assaults on Gaza and called for an end to the war. His final public speech, delivered just yesterday, urged for humanitarian aid to be sent to Gaza.

Members of Gaza’s Christian community said the Pope maintained daily contact with them, was aware of their needs, and kept informed about the difficulties they were facing. This community has been targeted multiple times during the war.

Pope Francis was a staunch advocate for the rights and self-determination of Palestinians. He stated, “Israel’s attacks on Gaza are causing death and destruction, creating a shameful humanitarian catastrophe.” He repeatedly called for a ceasefire and demanded that aid be allowed into Gaza. Since March, Israel has halted the entry of humanitarian aid into the besieged territory.

Pope Francis also urged the international community to recognize the conflict as genocide. In November 2023, he declared, “We cannot, under any circumstances, accept the bombing of civilian populations.”

He will be remembered by many for his empathy toward the people of Gaza, particularly for his historic visit during which he firmly stood in support of the Palestinians’ right to self-determination.