Madonna calls on Pope Leo XIV to visit Gaza ‘before it’s too late’

In a significant plea that has resonated across social media, global superstar Madonna recently called upon Pope Leo XIV to personally visit Gaza, expressing profound concern for the region's children. Her heartfelt message, shared via an Instagram post on Tuesday, August 12, emphasized the urgent need for intervention.

The "Queen of Pop" articulated her anguish as a mother, stating, "I cannot bear to watch their suffering." She believes the pontiff holds a unique position, being the only one who would likely not be denied entry into the Palestinian territory, urging him to "bring his light" before it's too late.

Madonna revealed that her son Rocco's birthday inspired her to seek a meaningful way to aid children impacted by the ongoing situation in Gaza. She clarified her stance, asserting, "I am not pointing fingers, placing blame, or taking sides. Everyone is suffering. Including the mothers of the hostages. I pray that they are released as well."

Her call is rooted in a desire to prevent further starvation among children, underscoring the critical time-sensitive nature of the crisis. "There is no more time. Please say you will go," Madonna implored the Pope in her post.

This appeal aligns with Pope Leo XIV's prior pronouncements on the conflict. In May, during his first Sunday message, he appealed to world leaders for "no more war," advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages. Furthermore, in July, the pontiff condemned the "barbarity of war" following an Israeli airstrike that hit Gaza's only Catholic church, resulting in fatalities and injuries, and he has also spoken out against the forced displacement of Palestinians to President Mahmoud Abbas.

Madonna's statement comes shortly after a tragic incident on August 10, where six Al Jazeera journalists, including Anas Al Sharif, were reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike. Al Jazeera described these journalists as "among the last remaining voices in Gaza conveying the tragic reality to the world."