VATICAN CITY, November 2, 2025 — Pope Leo XIV has once again condemned the escalating violence in Sudan, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the urgent opening of humanitarian corridors to save lives in the war-torn country.
Speaking during his Sunday Angelus address at Saint Peter’s Square, the pontiff expressed deep sorrow over the worsening humanitarian crisis, particularly in El-Fasher, a city in northern Darfur that has been at the center of fierce fighting between rival forces.
“With great sorrow, I follow the tragic news coming from Sudan, particularly from the city of El-Fasher in the afflicted northern Darfur region,” the Pope said.
“I denounce the indiscriminate violence against women and children, attacks on unarmed civilians, and the serious obstacles to humanitarian action that have caused unacceptable suffering to a population already exhausted by long months of conflict.”
The Pope appealed to both warring sides — the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) — to lay down their weapons and allow humanitarian workers access to civilians trapped in the fighting.
The conflict in Sudan erupted in April 2023, when tensions between the national army and the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces turned into full-scale war.
Since then, the violence has killed tens of thousands, displaced over 10 million people, and created what the United Nations calls the world’s largest hunger and displacement crisis.
Millions are now sheltering in makeshift camps or have fled into neighboring countries like Chad, South Sudan, and Egypt.
Last month, the RSF captured El-Fasher, the army’s last major stronghold in the Darfur region, after an 18-month siege marked by starvation, bombardments, and civilian suffering.
Human rights organizations have since reported mass executions, sexual violence, looting, and abductions, while communication lines remain largely cut off, making it difficult for aid agencies to reach those in need.
The Pope’s latest statement follows similar appeals he made in September, urging the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and protect Sudan’s most vulnerable populations.
“The people of Sudan have suffered too long,” the pontiff said. “I renew my heartfelt appeal for dialogue, peace, and compassion. May all sides remember their shared humanity.”
Humanitarian organizations have welcomed the Pope’s remarks, saying his moral voice amplifies global attention to a crisis that has received limited media coverage despite its staggering scale.
Attempts by African and Middle Eastern mediators, including the African Union (AU), Saudi Arabia, and the United States, have so far failed to produce a lasting ceasefire. Negotiations continue to stall amid mutual distrust and ongoing territorial battles.
Aid groups are urging the international community to press both sides to allow safe access for relief convoys, warning that famine is imminent if humanitarian operations remain blocked.
The Pope concluded his address by inviting the faithful around the world to pray for peace in Sudan and support organizations working to assist victims of the war.
