Posted on Jul 19, 2025

Pope Leo’s Comments On Israel Striking Gaza's Only Catholic Church Are Going Mega Viral

"I renew my call for an immediate ceasefire. Only dialogue and reconciliation can ensure enduring peace!"

by Alexa Lisitza

BuzzFeed Staff

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Entrance to the Holy Cross Monastery in Jerusalem, showing gates and surrounding buildings under a clear sky. Cross visible on nearby hilltop

“Israel is investigating the incident and remains committed to protecting civilians and holy sites,” it continued.

Two men in business suits stand near a car with American flags, one waving. A ceremonial guard is in uniform beside them

Well, as head of the Catholic church, Pope Leo released his own statement about the tragedy on X (formerly known as Twitter).

I am deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury caused by the military attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church in #Gaza. I assure the parish community of my spiritual closeness. I commend the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, and pray for…
— Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex) July 17, 2025

Twitter: @Pontifex

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"I assure the parish community of my spiritual closeness. I commend the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, and pray for their families and the injured. I renew my call for an immediate ceasefire. Only dialogue and reconciliation can ensure enduring peace!"

A man dressed as the Pope stands against a dark backdrop, wearing traditional papal attire, including a cross necklace

A man in religious attire gestures with both hands raised in front of a textured backdrop

A man in clerical attire waves while standing, appearing to greet a crowd

A religious leader in ceremonial attire waves, wearing an ornate hat and robe

Pope Leo’s Comments On Israel Striking Gaza's Only Catholic Church Are Going Mega Viral

Yesterday, it was announced that the Holy Family Church — a shelter and place of worship for Catholics in Gaza — was struck by Israel amid the continuing Israel-Palestine conflict. Three people were killed.

Soon after, the office of Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement saying, “Israel deeply regrets that a stray ammunition hit Gaza’s Holy Family Church. Every innocent life lost is a tragedy.”

Well, as head of the Catholic church, Pope Leo released his own statement about the tragedy on X (formerly known as Twitter).

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury caused by the military attack on the Holy Family Catholic Church in #Gaza," he wrote.

The post has been viewed by over 5 million people.

Further, NBC reports that during a Friday morning call between Pope Leo and Netanyahu, the pope relayed the importance of a ceasefire and end to the war in Gaza...

...and expressed that places of worship, worshippers, and citizens on the ground in both Palestine and Israel should be protected.

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