Power-wielding leaders urged to cease armed conflicts and initiate diplomatic discussions for peace
Pope Leo XIV Urges Ceasefire and Respect for Humanitarian Law in Gaza and Thailand-Cambodia Conflict
Pope Leo has issued appeals for peace in two ongoing conflicts, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the violence between Thailand and Cambodia.
In the Gaza Strip, the Pope expressed concern over the dire humanitarian situation, where the civilian population is suffering from severe hunger and exposed to violence and death. He did not specify any particular group as hostages in the conflict.
In a statement, Pope Leo asserted that every human person possesses an inherent dignity, bestowed by God. He urged an end to actions that violate human dignity and asked for the protection of innocent victims of conflicts.
The Pope also prayed for leaders who have the power to resolve the conflicts, and asked Mary, the "Queen of Peace," to inspire everyone to seek dialogue and reconciliation. He did not mention any specific timeline for his prayers or appeals in either conflict.
Meanwhile, in Southeast Asia, fighting broke out between Thailand and Cambodia along a disputed border, leading to the death of at least 32 people, including civilians. More than 200,000 people in both countries were evacuated or fled from their homes in the border areas due to the conflict.
The Pope expressed his closeness to those suffering due to the conflict and violence, especially displaced children and families. He also asked the Prince of Peace to inspire all parties involved to start negotiations aimed at securing a future of peace for all peoples.
The Prime Minister of Thailand involved in the border dispute is Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court in August 2025. The Prime Minister of Cambodia involved is Hun Sen, the former leader of Cambodia with whom Paetongtarn had a controversial call during the dispute.
Pope Leo's appeals and prayers are not limited to the conflicts in Gaza and Thailand-Cambodia, but may extend to other conflicts as well. He specifically mentioned those in southern Syria as being in need of his support.
The Pope's message is clear: the time for negotiations to start is now. He invoked Mary, the "Queen of Peace," in his prayers, asking her to protect the innocent victims of conflicts and inspire leaders to seek peace and reconciliation.
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