Israel summoned the Vatican envoy to discuss Pope Francis' comments on Gaza airstrikes. The Pope described the airstrikes as cruel and urged for a Christmas ceasefire, which Israel criticised as ignoring Hamas' role in the conflict,

The pontiff's condemnation of atrocities in Gaza reveals an increasing anger over Israel's actions in the holy land

Pope Francis in his traditional Christmas message urges everyone to find courage 'to silence the sounds of arms and overcome divisions' plaguing the world.

Pope Francis called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as for the release of hostages, adding aid needs to be given to the people “worn out by hunger and by war.”

Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, delivered the "Urbi et Orbi" Christmas message and blessing from the Vatican at noon local time.

He made the remarks a day after the start of the Roman Catholic Church’s Holy Year, known as a Jubilee, which takes place every quarter century. On Tuesday evening, Francis opened the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica so that the first pilgrims could go through. Millions more are expected to follow over the year.

Christmas message, Pope Francis urged the world to “silence the sound of arms" and find reconciliation, “even (with) our enemies."

Pope Francis has called for a “negotiation” to end the war in Ukraine in a Christmas Day message where he appealed for weapons to be laid down in global conflicts and reconciliation between enemies.

Across faiths and across the globe, prominent individuals whose legacies are likely to continue to shape their ministries and missions were remembered.

Pope Francis in his traditional Christmas message on Wednesday urged “all people of all nations” to find courage during this Holy Year “to silence the sounds of arms and overcome divisions” plaguing the world,