Pope Francis has intensified his criticisms of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, highlighting the severe humanitarian conditions faced by civilians. In a recent address, he condemned the bombing of civilians and emphasized the plight of freezing children due to destroyed hospitals and energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Israeli air strikes have continued, leading to civilian casualties as negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release are facilitated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken indicated that a ceasefire could be imminent.