Pope Francis pleads for end to Israel-Hamas conflict in poignant Christmas message

Speaking from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, the pope invoked the words of the prophet Isaiah, envisioning a day when "nation shall not lift up sword against nation". He spoke of a time when people "will not train for war anymore", but "will beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks".

"With God's help, let us strive to make this day come closer," the Holy Father emphasized. "Let it come closer in Israel and Palestine, where war disrupts the lives of their residents," he added.

The pope's call for an end to further bloodshed was a significant part of his Christmas message. "I embrace them all, especially the Christian communities of Gaza and the entire Holy Land. I carry in my heart the sorrow of the victims of the shameful attack of October 7 and I renew the urgent appeal for the release of those still being held hostage. I beg for an end to military operations, with their terrifying aftermath of innocent civilian casualties, and for the alleviation of the desperate humanitarian situation by opening doors for incoming aid," Pope Francis proclaimed.

"Let there be no further incitement of violence and hatred, but instead the beginning of a solution to the Palestinian issue through sincere and persistent dialogue between the parties, backed by determined political will and the support of the international community," he emphasized.