Pope Francis calls for Gaza ceasefire during brief Easter address

Sunday 20 April 2025 - 14:32

By: Zahouani Ilham

Pope Francis calls for Gaza ceasefire during brief Easter address

During a brief Easter Sunday appearance at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, denouncing the humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing conflict. The pontiff, 88, currently recovering from a serious case of double pneumonia, delivered his message from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica. While an aide read the traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, Francis condemned the suffering inflicted by Israel’s military operations and expressed solidarity with both Israeli and Palestinian civilians.

He urged the release of hostages held by Hamas and criticized the rise of global anti-Semitism. “Call a ceasefire, release the hostages, and help a starving people longing for peace,” he appealed to both sides.

Due to health reasons, Cardinal Angelo Comastri conducted the Easter mass in the pope’s place. Despite medical advice to rest, Francis made brief public appearances in recent days, including a visit to a Roman prison.

Asked about his condition during Easter week, he responded, “I am living it as best I can.”

In a separate development, Pope Francis also met privately with US Vice President JD Vance on Sunday morning to exchange Easter greetings. The meeting followed discussions the previous day between Vance and senior Vatican officials, amid tensions between the Holy See and the Trump administration over immigration and foreign aid. Francis had earlier denounced the US deportation policies as a “disgrace,” rejecting theological justifications presented by Vance.