Pope Francis Calls On Hamas To Release Hostages

Pope Francis Calls On Hamas To Release Hostages

Pope Francis Calls On Hamas To Release Hostages: Pope Francis has this day called on Hamas to release all hostages it captured during its unprecedented attacks on Israel.

“I pray for those families who have seen a day of celebration turned into a day of mourning and ask for the immediate release of the hostages,” the Pope said during Wednesday’s general audience in front of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Pope Francis went on to acknowledge Israel’s right to self-defense, saying, “It is the right of those who are attacked to defend themselves.” He also expressed concern for the “total siege facing the Palestinians in Gaza, where there have also been many innocent victims.”

He added “Terrorism and extremism do not help to reach a solution to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, but fuel hatred, violence and revenge, causing suffering to both sides.””

The Pope’s remarks came a few days after he addressed the crisis for the first time during his weekly Angelus prayer on Sunday. In that prayer, he appealed for an end to the attacks and fighting, adding, “War is a defeat, every war is always a defeat.”

He emphasized the importance of protecting innocent lives and urged Hamas to engage in peaceful negotiations to resolve the ongoing conflict. He expressed his concern for the well-being of all individuals affected by the violence and called for a swift resolution that promotes peace and stability in the region.

So far the death Toll in Gaza has continued to rise as Israel steps up offensive in Gaza.