Eastern and Latin alike — who, above all in the Middle East, persevere and remain in their homelands,” Leo said May 14.

The Holy See exists so that enemies may meet and look each other in the eye—so that nations may rediscover the hope and dignity they are entitled to, the dignity of peace,” the pope said in his address.

Pope Leo XIV stepped out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to thunderous applause and an electric atmosphere, to deliver his first Sunday blessing and an address calling for peace in Ukraine and Gaza.