Request for Ceasefire and Hostage Release from Israel and Hamas
Urging Prisoner Exchange in Russia-Ukraine War

Pope Francis delivered a message on Easter expressing concern over wars and conflicts and praying for peaceful resolutions. He called on both Israel and Hamas to immediately cease fire and release hostages, and urged Russia and Ukraine to exchange all prisoners of war.

Pope Francis delivered the 'Urbi et Orbi' (Latin for 'to Rome and the world') Easter message at St. Peter's Basilica on the 31st (local time). [Image source=Yonhap News]

According to Vatican News on the 31st (local time), the Pope delivered the 'Urbi et Orbi' (Latin for 'to the city [Rome] and the world') Easter message from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, addressing Catholic believers.

The Pope reflected on the victims of various conflicts around the world, including in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine, saying, "May the risen Christ open the way to peace for the people in these war-torn regions."

Regarding Russia and Ukraine, he said, "I urge respect for the principles of international law, and I express the hope that Russia and Ukraine will exchange all prisoners 'for everyone’s sake'." Concerning the war between Israel and Hamas, he stated, "I once again appeal for humanitarian aid to be guaranteed to the Gaza Strip, and I call again for the immediate release of hostages taken last October and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza."

He emphasized the need to stop hostilities that severely affect civilians and children, pointing out that "war is always a defeat and an absurdity." He added, "Let us not succumb to the logic of weapons and rearmament. Peace can never be achieved by arms; it is achieved by reaching out and opening hearts."

He also mentioned conflicts and disputes in Syria, Lebanon, the Balkans, Armenia-Azerbaijan, Haiti, Myanmar, and African regions, urging that peace be found as soon as possible. He expressed condolences to all victims of terrorism in all its forms.

Earlier that day, the Pope celebrated the Easter Mass at St. Peter's Square, where about 30,000 people gathered. The 87-year-old Pope, who had part of his lung removed in his youth and has suffered from respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and flu during the winter, raising concerns about his health, appeared in a wheelchair but conducted the outdoor Mass in generally good health.