Pope Leo XIV addresses Gaza crisis during Christmas Mass

Pope Leo XIV used his first Christmas Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver a powerful and deeply human message, placing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza at the centre of his inaugural Christmas address. Drawing on the story of Jesus’ birth, the pontiff made a stark comparison to the lives of displaced Palestinians, asking how the world could ignore families living in tents, exposed to weeks of rain, wind and cold. His remarks set an early tone for his papacy — one grounded in compassion, moral urgency and advocacy for those caught in conflict.

Massive shortfall

The Pope’s comments come as conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate sharply. An estimated 1.3 million Palestinians are in urgent need of shelter this winter, with recent storms destroying approximately 110,000 tents. Humanitarian organisations report deaths due to exposure among vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly. The Norwegian Refugee Council says just 15,600 tents have been delivered so far, leaving a massive shortfall, while restrictions on the entry of shelter materials have compounded the crisis and intensified suffering across the region.

Beyond Gaza, Leo widened his message to condemn the broader toll of war, speaking of the “fragile flesh of defenceless populations” harmed by global conflicts. He criticised those who send young soldiers into battle and stressed that peace can only be achieved through dialogue, not entrenched monologues. “There will be peace when our monologues are interrupted,” he said, urging leaders to recognise the humanity of the other. His upcoming Urbi et Orbi blessing is expected to address multiple global crises, reinforcing his diplomatic approach and his call for peace, solidarity and human dignity.