By Ayomide Otitoju
Pope Francis, in his Christmas Day Urbi et Orbi address, urged for an end to armed conflicts worldwide, focusing on Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan. Speaking to thousands gathered at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff condemned the ongoing violence and called for peace negotiations in areas ravaged by war.
“May the sound of arms be silenced in war-torn Ukraine,” the 88-year-old pontiff said, addressing the continued hostilities as Ukraine endured a barrage of 170 Russian missiles and drones on Christmas morning. “May there be the boldness needed to open the door to negotiation and to gestures of dialogue and encounter, in order to achieve a just and lasting peace,” he said, his voice strained from illness.
Plea for Peace in Gaza
The pope highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. “I think of the Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is extremely grave. May there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released, and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war,” he pleaded.
Sudan and the Middle East
Expanding his message, Francis urged peace across the Middle East and in Sudan, a nation torn by 20 months of civil war that has left millions on the brink of famine. “May the Son of the Most High sustain the efforts of the international community to facilitate access to humanitarian aid for the civilian population of Sudan and to initiate new negotiations for a ceasefire,” he said.
The pope’s Christmas address emphasized a universal call for peace and solidarity, urging nations and leaders to work toward ending violence and alleviating the suffering of millions.
