In a heartfelt message during his Sunday Angelus message and prayers, Pope Francis expressed his sadness over the broken truce between Israel and Hamas and called for all parties involved to reach a new ceasefire as soon as possible. The seven-day pause in the fighting, which had allowed for the exchange of hostages and prisoners, came to a devastating end on Friday. Israel has since increased its bombing campaign, resulting in further destruction and loss of life. According to Palestinian officials, more than 15,400 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, which was sparked by a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7th.

During this attack, 1,200 Israelis were killed and over 200 were taken hostage. Pope Francis emphasized the pain and suffering caused by the broken truce, acknowledging the death, destruction, and misery it brings. The Pope's words were read out by an aide due to his frail health. Despite recovering from a lung inflammation, which forced him to cancel his trip to the COP28 U.N. climate summit in Dubai, Pope Francis continues to advocate for peace and offer prayers for those affected by the ongoing conflict.

Acknowledging the families of both the freed hostages and those still in Gaza, the Pope called for compassion and urged all parties to find alternative solutions to violence. He emphasized the suffering and lack of basic necessities in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for relief and assistance. Pope Francis concluded by expressing hope that a new agreement for a ceasefire can be reached swiftly, allowing for peace and stability in the region. Due to his limited public speaking and appearances, screens were placed in St. Peter's Square to allow the faithful to follow the Pope's message. At the end of his address, they greeted him with chants of "Viva il papa!" (Long live the Pope).