Pope Leo, whose role in advocating for peace in Gaza has become notably stark since Israel struck the territory's only Catholic church last week, told Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Monday that he opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians.

In a telephone conversation with President Mahmoud Abbas of the State of Palestine on Monday, Pope Leo XIV repeated his appeal for international humanitarian law to be fully respected. According to the Vatican,

Pope Leo XIV has renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Speaking on Sunday after his Angelus prayer, he urged the international community to respect humanitarian laws and protect civilians.