Pope Francis on Sunday, March 31, renewed his calls for the release of Israeli hostages and an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and for a Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap.
His calls come as fresh truce negotiations between Israel and Hamas were due to begin, and as Russia's invasion of Ukraine grinds into its third year.
"I appeal once again that access to humanitarian aid be ensured to Gaza, and call once more for the prompt release of the hostages seized on October 7 and for an immediate ceasefire in the Strip," the Pope said in his Easter message in the Vatican.
"In calling for respect for the principles of international law, I express my hope for a general exchange of all prisoners between Russia and Ukraine," he told tens of thousands of Catholics gathered at Saint Peter's Square.