Pope Leo XIV has publicly endorsed a joint appeal for peace in Gaza issued by Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem and Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa, according to Vatican News.

In a statement released following the ecumenical appeal, the Pope reiterated the urgent need for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unhindered humanitarian access to the besieged enclave.

“I call for full adherence to the principles of international humanitarian law, especially the protection of civilians and the prohibition of collective punishment and forced displacement,” the Pope said.

Pope Leo also recalled the Day of Prayer for Peace held on August 22, encouraging continued interfaith efforts to end the violence and restore dignity to all affected.

He concluded his address with a prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, invoking her intercession to bring “reconciliation and peace to the land so dear to us all.”

This statement comes in response to a powerful declaration made on August 26 by both Catholic and Orthodox patriarchs in Jerusalem, who condemned reported plans for a military takeover of Gaza and the potential forced displacement of its civilian population.

“The time has come to end the cycle of violence and place the common good of the people above all else,” the patriarchs declared.

The united front of religious leaders underscores growing concern among global Christian communities over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the deepening conflict in the region.