Pope: Stop the spiral of violence and make room for diplomacy
By Kielce Gussie
Following the recitation of the Angelus prayer on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV expressed his concern over the ongoing situation in Sudan, referring in particular to the city of el-Obeid.
“In expressing my spiritual closeness to all the people of the nation, I renew my appeal to those in authority to guarantee humanitarian corridors for the civilian population,” he stressed. At the same time, the Pope called on the international community “to support efforts aimed at bringing about an immediate ceasefire.”
He urged everyone to pray that the Lord will support and sustain everyone suffering, “convert the hearts of those who sow violence, and grant the long-awaited peace.”
Preventing another humanitarian catastrophe
The United Nations is warning the global community that el-Obeid is in danger of becoming Sudan’s next humanitarian catastrophe. People report running out of food, water, and medical supplies following months of siege as drones continue to strike and sexual violence has become more common.
Sudanese children trying to get leftover food from an empty pot in a camp for displaced people near the city of el-Obeid (AFP or licensors)
Fighting continues in and around the capital city of the North Kordofan state as el-Obeid is situated along a strategic corridor in central Sudan and on the road to the western Darfur region of the country.
More than 14 million people have been displaced across Sudan, and millions live in hunger after three years of conflict.
'War only breeds more war'
Continuing his appeals, Pope Leo drew attention to the many innocent lives lost and people wounded in Ukraine and Russia. He highlighted how “tragic episodes” are not only continuing but are multiplying, leading to an increasing number of civilian casualties.
“I stand with the families of the victims, the wounded, and all those who are suffering as a result of the ongoing conflict,” the Pope said.
In the midst of this ongoing conflict, he renewed his heartfelt appeal for international humanitarian law to be respected and for people on both sides stop attacks that involve civilians as targets.
“War only breeds more war and causes immense suffering,” Pope Leo stressed. “It is time to stop the spiral of violence and make room for diplomacy and dialogue, paving the way for peace.”
Young people: Be inspired by the saints
After greeting groups from around Italy, the Pope highlighted the presence of many youth groups in St. Peter's Square. He noted that they have chosen to "devote some of their vacation days to activities that foster personal growth and friendship as a sign of hope." In particular, he recalled his meeting with young people at the Franciscan meeting in Assisi on August 6.
Pope Leo greeting young people in Assisi during his visit on August 6 (@VATICAN MEDIA)
Pope Leo encouraged the young people to look to the saints on the liturgical calendar these days as examples: Saint Dominic, Saint Teresa Benedicts of the Cross, Saint Lawrence, and Saint Clare of Assisi.
"Dear young people," the Pope said, "let yourselves be inspired and enthused by these exemplary witnesses to the Gospel!"
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