Live Update 
From the Liveblog of
Sunday, May 11, 2025
From the Liveblog of
Sunday, May 11, 2025
Pope Leo XIV calls for Gaza ceasefire, release of hostages in first Sunday blessing as pontiff
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Pope Leo XIV delivers the Regina Caeli prayer from the main central loggia of St Peter's basilica in The Vatican, on May 11, 2025. (Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP)
Pope Leo XIV appeals to the world’s major powers for “no more war” in his first Sunday message to crowds in St. Peter’s Square since his election as pontiff.
The new pope calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with the release of hostages and delivery of humanitarian aid.
“Never again war!” Leo says from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Recalling the end of World War II 80 years ago, Leo quotes Pope Francis in denouncing the number of conflicts ravaging the globe today, saying it is a “third world war in pieces.”
The new pope, elected on May 8, also calls for an “authentic and lasting peace” in Ukraine and welcomes the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, saying he is praying to God to grant the world the “miracle of peace.”
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