In a display of compassion and solidarity, Pope Francis is set to meet with two separate groups of relatives affected by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The meetings, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, November 22, will occur on the margins of the Pope's weekly audience at the Vatican. The Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, explained that the meetings are of a humanitarian nature and are intended to demonstrate the Pope's spiritual closeness to the suffering of each individual involved. During the encounter, Pope Francis aims to convey a message of peace and unity, emphasizing that every human being, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, deserves to live in peace.

Breaking🚨 Israel🇮🇱 Vatican City 🇻🇦

His Holiness Pope Francis will meet with relatives of Israeli hostages held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza next week. pic.twitter.com/gimnNdCDeL

— Izlamic Terrorist (@raviagrawal3) November 17, 2023

The first group to meet with the Pope is made up of relatives of Israeli citizens who have been held hostage by Hamas, the Palestinian militant group responsible for the recent attack on Israel. Approximately 240 people were taken hostage during the attack, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals, mainly innocent civilians. Israeli officials have vowed to take strong action against Hamas in response. The second group consists of relatives of Palestinians in Gaza who have been directly affected by the conflict.

Gaza, currently under Hamas rule since their takeover in 2007, has experienced significant casualties as a result of Israel's air and ground campaign to dismantle the terrorist group's regime. According to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, approximately 11,500 people, including 4,710 children and 3,160 women, have been killed since the start of the war. However, these figures have not been independently verified and do not distinguish between civilians and militants, nor do they account for casualties caused by failed Palestinian rocket launches.

By meeting with these groups, Pope Francis aims to demonstrate his commitment to peace, justice, and the protection of human rights for all individuals, regardless of their background. He reiterated this sentiment in his comments during last Sunday's Angelus, stating that every human being is sacred and has the right to live in peace. The Pope's actions serve as a powerful reminder that empathy and understanding can play a crucial role in promoting reconciliation and healing in times of conflict.