Palestinian president calls Pope about situation in Gaza

President Abbas called Pope Leo on July 21. According to the Vatican, the Holy Father repeated his appeal for the protection of “civilians and sacred places” during the conversation.

As well as reiterating his concern that international humanitarian law be “fully respected”, the Pope specifically called for the prohibition of the “indiscriminate use of force” and the “forced transfer” of people in the region.

He also emphasised “the urgent need to provide assistance to those most vulnerable to the consequences of the conflict, and to allow the adequate entry of humanitarian aid”, according to the Holy See Press Office. 

The conversation between Pope Leo and President Abbas happened one day after the latter launched an international contact campaign to world leaders and international organisations to stop the destruction of Gaza and end the “crime of starvation” against its people.

Earlier this month, Israeli settlers set fire to the cemetery of the fifth-century Church of St George Al Khidr on the West Bank.

According to the Palestinian government, approximately 59,000 people have been killed in Gaza, including more than 18,000 children and 10,000 women since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, 2023.

This week, Caritas Internationalis issued a statement denouncing Israel’s “merciless attacks on the civilian population of Gaza and those who are trying to help them and bring humanitarian relief”. The charity also lamented the continued holding of 50 hostages by Hamas.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that Gaza’s remaining humanitarian lifelines are rapidly collapsing under the weight of Israel’s ongoing military offensive, Vatican News reported.

Amid growing international concern, the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference reaffirmed its support for South Africa’s legal case against Israel at the International Criminal Court (ICC), which accuses Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. 

In Doha, Egyptian and Qatari mediators are attempting to negotiate a truce between Israel and Hamas.

FULL STORY

Palestine President calls Pope concerning Holy Land conflict (By Kristina Millare/CNA)

Caritas Internationalis condemns Israeli action in Gaza (CWN)

Gaza health crisis escalates as international condemnation grows (Vatican News)

Hamas responds to Gaza truce offer with unacceptable new demands – mediators (Times of Israel)

RELATED STORY

IDF: Gaza Holy Family Parish hit was errant mortar round that veered off course (OSV News)