Pope Leo calls for an end to the 'barbarity of war' after attack on church in Gaza

(Patria) - Pope Leo on Sunday called for an end to the "barbarity of war," expressing his deep pain over the Israeli attack on the only Catholic church in Gaza, Reuters reported.

Three people were killed, and several were injured, including the parish priest, in an attack on the complex of the Holy Family Church in Gaza City on Thursday. Photos show its roof was hit near the main cross, with its stone facade scorched and windows shattered.

Speaking after the Angelus prayer, Leo read out the names of those killed in the incident.

"I appeal to the international community to respect humanitarian law and to uphold the obligation to protect civilians, as well as the prohibition of collective punishment, indiscriminate use of force, and forced displacement of the population," he said.