Pope Leo decries Sudan violence, urges dialogue and relief effort
By Reuters, November 2, 2025Pope Leo on Sunday appealed for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors in Sudan, saying he was following with “great sorrow” reports of terrible brutality in the city of Al-Fashir in Darfur.
“Indiscriminate violence against women and children, attacks on defenceless civilians, and serious obstacles to humanitarian action are causing unacceptable suffering,” the pope said during his weekly Angelus address to crowds in St. Peter’s Square. He called on the international community to act “decisively and generously” to support relief efforts.
The U.N. human rights office said on Friday that hundreds of civilians and unarmed fighters may have been killed late last month when the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) captured Al-Fashir, the Sudanese army’s last major holdout in Darfur.
The city fell after an 18-month siege, prompting tens of thousands of residents to flee in fear of renewed ethnic attacks.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a brutal conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
What began as a power struggle between rival generals, RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has turned into one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
The United Nations and humanitarian agencies estimate that more than 15,000 people have been killed and over 10 million displaced, making Sudan home to the largest displacement crisis globally.
Al-Fashir, one of the last remaining safe havens in Darfur, has faced relentless shelling, airstrikes, and reports of targeted killings against civilians.
Aid groups warn that starvation, disease, and lack of access to medical care are pushing Sudan toward total collapse.
“Thousands are trapped without food, water, or safety,” said a U.N. official, describing conditions as “unlivable.”
The World Health Organisation has also reported the destruction of health facilities and the killing of medical workers.
Pope Leo also turned his attention to Tanzania, where post-election clashes have led to numerous casualties. He urged all sides to shun violence and “walk the path of dialogue.” His message, observers say, highlights the Vatican’s growing concern over rising instability in Africa.