VATICAN CITY — In a moving Easter address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, urging peace and humanitarian aid for the region’s suffering population. The 88-year-old pontiff, weakened by a recent battle with double pneumonia, spoke briefly to thousands gathered for Easter Sunday Mass, his words amplified by an aide due to his frail condition.
The pope’s annual Urbi et Orbi blessing, meaning “to the city and the world,” carried a somber tone as he addressed the 18-month conflict in Gaza. “Let there be an end to violence,” the statement read. “I call for a ceasefire, the freeing of hostages, and urgent aid for a people yearning for peace.” He expressed solidarity with both Palestinians and Israelis, acknowledging their shared pain and the need for reconciliation.
Francis also condemned the global rise in anti-Semitism and reiterated his concern for hostages still held by Hamas, emphasizing the need for compassion over conflict. His remarks build on earlier criticisms of the Gaza situation, which he has called a “humanitarian tragedy” in recent months.
Despite his health challenges, the pope’s appearance was a testament to his resilience. Hospitalized for five weeks until March 23, Francis has limited his public engagements on medical advice. Cardinal Angelo Comastri led the Easter Mass in his place, and the pope skipped traditional rituals, such as the foot-washing ceremony at a Roman prison, to preserve his strength. His brief balcony address, however, drew cheers from the crowd, though some expressed worry over his visibly fragile state.
“It’s clear he’s pushing himself to be here,” said Maria Conti, an Italian pilgrim in attendance. “His message of peace feels even more urgent because of his condition.”
In a private Easter Sunday meeting, Pope Francis welcomed US Vice President JD Vance to the Vatican, where they exchanged greetings and discussed global issues. The visit followed talks between Vance and senior Vatican figures, including Cardinal Pietro Parolin, though tensions linger over the pontiff’s recent critiques of the Trump administration’s policies. Francis has openly challenged the administration’s approach to immigration and social welfare, advocating for a broader commitment to global compassion.
In a letter to US Catholic bishops, the pope wrote, “Our duty is to care for all humanity, not only those within our borders.” The statement was seen as a direct response to nationalist rhetoric from some US leaders.
As the Vatican navigates these diplomatic strains, Pope Francis remains focused on his call for peace. “I live this moment as I must,” he said when asked about his health during Holy Week, a quiet reflection of his determination to lead despite personal hardship.
The Easter address, delivered under a cloudy Roman sky, left the faithful with a message of hope tempered by urgency. For the people of Gaza and beyond, the pope’s plea was clear: peace cannot wait.
