Although the fighting and routine Israeli strikes have largely paused across the enclave since the ceasefire came into effect in October, the devastation has loomed over the Christmas celebrations this year, with much of Gaza's population living out of tents and food supplies still limited.

In his first Christmas homily, Pope Leo lamented conditions for Palestinians in Gaza and urged Ukraine and Russia to engage in direct talks to end their wr.

Pope Leo decried conditions for Palestinians in Gaza in his Christmas sermon, in an unusually direct appeal during what is normally a solemn, spiritual service on the day Christians across the globe c...