ROME –Pope Francis spoke by phone with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Sunday about the situation in Gaza, marking the latest such call with international leaders focused on ensuring access to humanitarian aid and pursuing ceasefire efforts.
The call, confirmed by Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni on Vatican News, the Vatican’s formal state-run media platform, took place at Raisi’s request. Bruni did not provide any details about the conversation.
According to the website of the Iranian presidency, Raisi condemned Israel’s retaliation over an Oct. 7 Hamas surprise attack that left 1,400 Israelis dead and several others taken hostage, saying the strikes on Gaza have been disproportionate, leaving around 10,000 people dead, including 4,000 children and 2,500 women, according to Palestinian estimates.
