"Many hostages have been freed but many are still in Gaza. We think of them, of their families, who had seen a light, a hope of embracing their loved ones again."
Italian rabbis questioned the worth of "decades of Jewish-Christian dialog" if when Jews are attacked the Vatican responds with "diplomatic acrobatics."
The Pope asked for prayers so that both sides would "not go ahead with passions, which in the end, kill everyone".
The Vatican has been vocal in calling for the release of all hostages as well as a ceasefire.
Currently, the official Vatican position is that it neither confirms nor denies possession of Herodian Temple objects such as the golden Menorah, sacred tables, altars, and priestly garments.
The hostages, captured by Hamas on October 7th, 2023, are reported to be in dire conditions, with fears of torture and urgent medical needs.
The pontiff renewed his calls for a ceasefire and for the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its Oct. 7 attack.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, said the Holy See remains firmly convinced that a two-state solution is the only way to guarantee lasting peace in the region.
The death toll in Israel from Hamas' attack has reached 1,300, with more than 3,000 people injured, as hostages remain trapped in Gaza.
Pope Francis called for talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan
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