Against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Europe, Pope Leo XIV called for prayers for children who are victims of war at the end of his general audience on September 10, 2025, held in a rainy St Peter's Square.
In his greeting to Polish pilgrims, the Pope referred to the celebration today of the National Day of Polish Child Victims of War, which commemorates their suffering and their contribution to the reconstruction of Poland after the Second World War
"Remember in your prayers and humanitarian projects the children of Ukraine, Gaza, and other regions of the world affected by war," said the Pope. "I entrust you and your children to the protection of Mary, Queen of Peace, and I bless you with all my heart."
The Pope's appeal came amid rising geopolitical tensions in both the Middle East and Central Europe.
Qatar strikes
On the Gaza front, the slim hope of negotiations seems to have vanished with the Israeli strike on Hamas leaders meeting in Qatar on September 9.
Israel had never before carried out a strike on the emirate, which was acting as a mediator between the warring parties.
Russia in EU airspace
Meanwhile, in Central Europe, Poland experienced its most serious alert since the start of the Russian offensive in Ukraine last night, with several violations of its airspace by Russian drones that were shot down by the Polish army, with the help of Dutch fighter jets. Some Polish airports, including those in Warsaw, were temporarily closed before reopening this morning.
This is the most serious incident to have occurred in European Union airspace. The Polish government has requested the activation of Article 4 of NATO, which provides for consultations between member countries if one of them is attacked.
"Truly serious situation"
Despite this context, contrary to his usual practice, Pope Leo XIV did not make a general appeal for peace in his greeting to Italians at the end of today's general audience. The day before, on leaving his residence in Castel Gandolfo where he had spent a day of rest, he spoke about the Israeli attack on Qatar, expressing concern about a "truly serious situation."
