Pop icon Madonna has issued a public plea to Pope Leo XIV, urging him to travel to Gaza and bring hope to children caught in the ongoing conflict.
In a message shared on her official social media channels, the singer said the Pope is uniquely positioned to enter the besieged territory and offer moral and spiritual comfort, stressing that “there is no more time” to act.
She explained that the appeal was inspired by her son Rocco’s birthday, which she described as a moment to reflect on the well-being of children worldwide.
Madonna, who was raised Catholic, stated that politics cannot solve the crisis and called instead for consciousness and compassion.
She made clear she was not assigning blame or choosing sides, acknowledging the suffering of both Gazan families and relatives of Israeli hostages, and urging the release of all captives.
Pope Leo XIV has been outspoken on Gaza since his inauguration, describing the war as “barbaric” and calling for an immediate end to hostilities.
He has urged the international community to uphold humanitarian law, protect civilians, and prohibit collective punishment, forced displacement, and indiscriminate use of force.
His July statement came amid reports of civilian casualties while waiting for food aid and growing fears of famine.
The pontiff has also appealed for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access, including medical supplies and shelter for displaced families.
Vatican officials have maintained that any peace initiative must prioritize the protection of non-combatants and the rebuilding of destroyed communities.
Madonna’s request comes as the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens, with aid agencies warning of severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical care.
By calling on Pope Leo XIV to make a personal visit, she hopes to draw global attention to the plight of the region’s most vulnerable and inspire a renewed push for peace.