Pope calls for new peace efforts after recent attacks in Ukraine and Gaza

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis on Tuesday called for concrete new measures to end the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, following attacks on a children’s hospital in Kyiv and a school in the Gaza Strip.

The Vatican press office released a statement on Tuesday expressing Francis’ pain at the new attacks and his “deep dismay” at the escalation of violence.

“While expressing his solidarity with the innocent victims and injured, he hopes and prays that concrete ways can be found to end these ongoing conflicts,” the statement said.

Francis has frequently asked for prayers for the “martyrs” of Ukraine, but his appeals remain rather general. He also takes a balanced stance on the war in Gaza, frequently mentioning Israel and the hostages still held by Hamas, in addition to the suffering of the Palestinians.

A Russian missile struck the Okhmatdyt children’s hospital on Monday, sparking international outrage. Russia denies responsibility for the incident and insists it does not attack civilian targets in Ukraine, despite ample evidence to that effect, including reports by the Associated Press.

In Gaza last week, an Israeli attack on a school housing displaced Palestinians killed more than 30 people, according to local health officials. The Israeli military said Hamas militias were operating from the school.