In a significant development, Pope Leo XIV has publicly endorsed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recently unveiled 20-point peace plan for Gaza, describing it as a “realistic proposal” and calling on the Palestinian group Hamas to accept it within the stipulated timeframe. The pontiff’s remarks, made to journalists outside Villa Barberini before his return to the Vatican on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, underscore the urgency of resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza and addressing the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Speaking with a tone of cautious optimism, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of the plan’s key components, particularly its focus on securing a ceasefire and facilitating the release of hostages. “We hope they accept it; so far it seems a realistic proposal,” he stated, highlighting what he described as “very interesting elements” within the framework. His endorsement comes at a critical juncture, as the war in Gaza, which has raged since October 2023, continues to exact a devastating toll on the Palestinian population, with over 66,000 fatalities reported, the majority of whom are women and children. The Israeli military’s relentless bombardment has left Gaza’s infrastructure in ruins, rendering the enclave largely uninhabitable and precipitating widespread starvation and disease.
The Pope’s comments also touched on the pressing issue of humanitarian aid, particularly in light of a flotilla approaching Gaza to deliver essential supplies amid escalating tensions. Expressing hope that the aid mission would proceed without violence, he stressed the urgency of addressing the “real humanitarian emergency” unfolding in the region. “There is a desire to respond to a real humanitarian emergency,” he said, adding, “We hope there is no violence and that people are respected.” His remarks reflect the Vatican’s longstanding commitment to advocating for peace and humanitarian relief in conflict zones, particularly in areas plagued by prolonged violence and suffering.
President Trump’s 20-point peace plan, unveiled during a White House press conference alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday, represents a bold attempt to broker an end to the conflict. The plan outlines several key measures, including the release of all Israeli captives held in Gaza in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners, the complete disarmament of Hamas, and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave. Additionally, it proposes the establishment of a technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee to govern Gaza, with the long-term possibility—though not a guarantee—of a pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood.
The proposal has sparked both hope and skepticism, given the complex and deeply entrenched nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While some view the plan as a pragmatic step toward de-escalation, others argue that its conditions, particularly the demand for Hamas’s disarmament and the ambiguous language surrounding Palestinian statehood, may prove contentious. Nevertheless, Pope Leo XIV’s endorsement lends significant moral weight to the initiative, potentially influencing international opinion and encouraging diplomatic efforts to bring the parties to the negotiating table.
Beyond the Gaza conflict, the Pope also addressed rising global tensions, particularly in response to recent U.S. rhetoric regarding the potential use of nuclear weapons. The remarks followed a controversial decision by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to convene military leaders under the newly renamed Department of War, a move that has drawn scrutiny for its provocative undertones. “This way of speaking is worrying,” Pope Leo XIV remarked, noting that such rhetoric reflects growing global tensions. “We hope it is just rhetoric. We hope it works, but that there is no war; we must work for peace.” His comments underscore the Vatican’s broader concerns about escalating militarization and the need for dialogue to prevent catastrophic conflicts.
Closer to home, the pontiff briefly addressed the ongoing Vatican trial concerning the management of Holy See funds, a case that has drawn significant attention due to allegations of financial mismanagement within the Church. Maintaining his commitment to impartiality, Pope Leo XIV stated that he would not interfere in the judicial proceedings. “It must proceed,” he said, entrusting the matter to the judges and lawyers involved. His hands-off approach reflects the Vatican’s efforts to uphold transparency and accountability in its financial operations, even as it navigates internal challenges.
The Gaza conflict, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced countless others, remains one of the most pressing humanitarian crises of our time. The Israeli military campaign, launched in response to Hamas’s actions in October 2023, has drawn widespread condemnation for its disproportionate impact on civilians. The destruction of homes, schools, and hospitals has left Gaza’s population grappling with acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, while the spread of disease has further compounded the suffering. International calls for a ceasefire have grown louder, with the United Nations and various humanitarian organizations urging immediate action to alleviate the crisis.
Pope Leo XIV’s endorsement of Trump’s peace plan marks a notable moment in the international response to the conflict. By lending his voice to the call for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief, the pontiff is leveraging his global influence to advocate for a resolution that prioritizes human dignity and peace. His remarks also highlight the Vatican’s role as a moral authority in global affairs, seeking to bridge divides and foster dialogue in even the most intractable conflicts.
As the humanitarian flotilla approaches Gaza, the world watches closely to see whether the aid mission will proceed peacefully or become a flashpoint for further violence. The success of such efforts, coupled with the implementation of Trump’s peace plan, could represent a turning point in the conflict, offering hope to a population that has endured immense suffering. However, the challenges remain formidable, with deep-seated mistrust between the parties and a complex web of political, military, and ideological factors at play.
In the coming weeks, the international community will likely look to the Vatican, the United States, and other key stakeholders to sustain momentum toward peace. Pope Leo XIV’s call for Hamas to accept the peace plan, combined with his broader appeal for de-escalation and humanitarian action, underscores the urgent need for collective efforts to end the violence and rebuild Gaza. As he concluded his remarks to journalists, the pontiff reiterated his hope for a future free from war, urging all parties to prioritize peace over conflict. “We must work for peace,” he said, a simple yet profound reminder of the stakes involved in this critical moment for Gaza and the world.