Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned the ongoing war in Gaza, calling it "barbaric" and urging for an immediate end to the violence. His statement came just days after an Israeli airstrike hit a Catholic church.

The Pope made his remarks at the end of the Angelus prayer in Castel Gandolfo, his summer residence near Rome. He stressed that peace must replace the "indiscriminate use of force."

He expressed "deep sorrow" over the strike on the Holy Family Church in Gaza. The attack left many injured and shocked the global Christian community.

According to reports, about 600 people were taking shelter inside the church during the strike. Many of them were children and individuals with special needs.

The Pope said he personally spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the incident. He urged both sides to prioritize human life and peace.

Human rights groups have also called for independent investigations into the strike.

Source: https://trt.global/world/live/682d0cd9272976ac4c84461d#6872f70012e7b7811f9b8006