Pope Leo XIV Urges Release of Haiti Hostages, Aid for Nepal After Deadly Floods

Castel Gandolfo, August 31, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has condemned a deadly massacre in Haiti, called for the immediate release of hostages and renewed his appeal for assistance to Nepal and Tibet following devastating floods and mudslides that have killed hundreds and left thousands missing.

Speaking after the Angelus on Sunday at Castel Gandolfo, the Pope expressed his closeness to the victims and their families following the massacre in Kenscoff.

“I ask that all the hostages be released without delay,” Pope Leo said, urging those responsible to ensure the safety of the population and end all forms of violence.

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The Pope also offered prayers for those affected by the floods and mudslides in Nepal and Tibet, including those who died, the injured and missing, their families and rescue personnel involved in ongoing operations.

“May everyone’s concern and commitment help to alleviate suffering and bring the necessary assistance to the affected populations,” he said.

The Vatican announced on Saturday that Pope Leo, through the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, had sent financial assistance to Caritas Nepal to address the most urgent needs of people affected by the disaster. In coordination with the Apostolic Nunciature of Nepal, the assistance will support relief efforts providing food, basic necessities and shelter.

More than 700 people have been reported dead between Nepal and Tibet, with at least 3,000 still missing, as rescue and relief operations continue.

In a telegram sent on Thursday, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin conveyed Pope Leo’s sorrow over the loss of life and widespread destruction. The Pope offered condolences to bereaved families, assured those affected of his spiritual closeness and prayed for emergency personnel conducting search-and-rescue operations.

Pope renews appeal for peace

Pope Leo also urged the faithful to continue praying for peace, recalling St Augustine, whose liturgical memorial was celebrated on August 28.

Using Augustine’s image of bread being broken and distributed, the Pope prayed that more people would become “channels” of peace by overcoming divisions, promoting justice and practising forgiveness.

Prayer for Creation

The Pope also recalled the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, which the Church will celebrate on September 1. This marks the beginning of the Season of Creation, whose theme this year is “Living Water”.

Pope Leo urged Christians to care for the common home through a conversion of heart, so that what has been used for destruction may instead be directed towards life.

He concluded by inviting everyone to join in prayer and action to become “channels of the living water of God’s peace” for a wounded world.

Courtesy: Vatican News