Pope Leo XIV has called for a lasting peace in the Middle East that respects the legitimate aspirations of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples, as the first steps of a peace deal began on Monday.
On Monday, 20 hostages were released by Hamas and returned to Israel, although the bodies of 24 deceased hostages have yet to be returned. In return, Israel released almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, some who had been serving life sentences.
The exchange was among the first steps of a peace deal between the two parties brokered by the United States and there is hope it will be the start of an enduring peace between Israel and Palestine.
Presiding over the Mass that concluded the Jubilee of Marian Spirituality on Sunday ahead of the hostage and prisoner swap, Pope Leo XIV spoke of his hope it would be the beginning of a just and lasting peace.
"In recent days, the agreement to begin the peace process has kindled a spark of hope in the Holy Land," he said at the conclusion of the Mass.
"I encourage all parties involved to continue courageously along the path toward a just and lasting peace that respects the legitimate aspirations of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples.
"Two years of conflict have caused death and destruction throughout the land, especially in the hearts of those who have brutally lost their children, parents, friends and possessions. With the entire Church, I am close to your immense pain."
The conflict has been a focus of the pontificate of both Pope Leo XIV and his predecessor Pope Francis. Pope Francis would famously call the parish each day during the war.
Under the next phase of the peace plan, Israel will withdraw its forces to pre-designated lines within the Gaza Strip.