Pope Leo, whose role in advocating for peace in Gaza has become notably stark since Israel struck the territory's only Catholic church last week, told Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Monday that he opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians.

"Sadly, this act adds to the continuous military attacks against the civilian population and places of worship in Gaza."

Pope Leo XIV on Monday spoke with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who called the pope to discuss the conflict in Gaza and the West Bank.