The Pope answered reporters waiting outside Villa Barberini, as has been the custom for nearly a month every Tuesday evening. “We hope they accept it; so far it seems a realistic proposal,” Pope Leo XIV said regarding the 20-point peace plan presented to the White House for Gaza by former U.S. President Trump, with the approval of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. He stressed the importance of a ceasefire and the release of hostages, adding, “There are very interesting elements,” and reiterating, “We hope Hamas accepts within the established timeframe.”

Respect for people

On the flotilla approaching Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid, amid ongoing tensions, the Pope highlighted the difficulty of the situation, noting that “there is a desire to respond to a real humanitarian emergency.” The Pontiff expressed hope that “there is no violence and that people are respected.”

Working for peace

Regarding the meeting convened by U.S. Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth with military leaders prepared for war, including the use of nuclear weapons, the Pope commented, “This way of speaking is worrying,” as it reflects increasing tensions. On President Trump’s decision to rename the department from “Defence” to “War,” the Holy Father said, “We hope it is just rhetoric.” He noted that it demonstrates a style of government “that uses force to exert pressure,” and added, “We hope it works, but that there is no war; we must work for peace.”

No Interference in Vatican trial

Asked about the ongoing trial in the Vatican concerning the management of Holy See funds, the Pope did not comment on the specifics, stating that it “must proceed” and that he “does not intend to interfere,” leaving it to the judges and defence lawyers to reach a conclusion

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Look to Church Teaching

In English, the Pope was asked for his opinion on the awarding of a prize to Democratic Senator Dick Durbin, who supports legalized abortion, by Cardinal Blaise Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago. “I’m not very familiar with the particular case,” Pope Leo XIV said. “I think it is very important to look at the overall work a senator has done during, if I am not mistaken, 40 years of service in the United States Senate.”

The Pontiff acknowledged the difficulties and tensions but emphasized that “it is important to consider many issues related to the teaching of the Church.” He underlined that saying “I am against abortion” while supporting the death penalty is not truly pro-life, nor is agreeing with the inhumane treatment of immigrants in the United States.

“These are very complex issues. I do not know if anyone has the full truth on them, but I would first of all ask that there be greater mutual respect, and that together — as human beings, in that case as American citizens or citizens of Illinois, as well as Catholics — we say: ‘We need to look closely at all these ethical issues and find the way forward as a Church.’ Church teaching on each of these issues is very clear.”

Return to the Vatican

Pope Leo XIV left Castel Gandolfo by car around 8:30 p.m., where he had arrived the previous evening, Monday, September 29. He will return tomorrow afternoon after the General Audience to meet over 400 religious leaders at the Mariapoli Centre of the Focolare Movement for the international event “Raising Hope for Climate Justice.” On the tenth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’, the Pontiff will preside over the “Celebration of Hope,” attended by climate experts, civil society representatives, and institutional delegates from around the world.