Pope Leo plans to visit Gaza

ROME, October 19 ------ A trip to Gaza is in Pope Leo XIV's heart, the Prefect of the Eastern Churches, Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, told journalists when asked whether a papal visit to the Strip is possible.

Speaking to journalists during the Silvestrini Prize event, Gugerotti said a papal visit to the war-torn territory is “certainly possible,” but logistical and safety issues must first be addressed.

"I believe Pope Leo XIV deeply desires to visit Gaza, but we must also take into account the concrete difficulties of reaching Gaza, and how the issue of internal security is resolved,” he said. “Not because the Pope is very concerned about his own personal safety, of course, but it makes no sense to jeopardize the safety of others," he explained.

He added that the Pope’s wish to personally express solidarity with the people of Gaza stems from genuine compassion. “I know him well,” Gugerotti said. “It is truly in his heart – he has a deep desire to be close to those suffering there.”

Source: pna.gov.ph