Pope Francis has used his seasonal Urbi et Orbi address to call for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as for the release of hostages, adding that aid needs to be given to the people “worn out by hunger and by war.” He made his comments during the traditional Christmas blessing in St Peter's Square.
The Christmas Urbi et Orbi address, “to the city and the world,” is traditionally a 360-degree review of a pope’s chief global concerns. This year Pope Francis focused on the rise of violence among nations in the world, following the opening of the Holy Door at St Peter’s Basilica yesterday evening to launch the 2025 Year of Jubilee.
