Pope Francis attends his weekly general audience in the Paul VI Hall, at the Vatican, Wednesday, January 8, 2025. (AP)

Pope Francis on Thursday intensified his criticism of "Israel's" genocidal campaign in Gaza, describing the humanitarian crisis in the sector as "very serious and shameful" during an annual address to Vatican-accredited diplomats on Thursday. The remarks were delivered on his behalf by an aide, as the 88-year-old pontiff recovers from a cold.

In his address, the pope condemned the bombing of civilians, referencing the dire conditions in Gaza where electricity is scarce, and winter cold has claimed lives. "We cannot in any way accept the bombing of civilians," the speech read. "We cannot accept that children are freezing to death because hospitals have been destroyed or a country's energy network has been hit."

The address, which is often referred to as the pope's "state of the world" speech, included a wide range of global concerns. Francis also condemned anti-Semitism, calling the rise of anti-Semitic groups "a source of deep concern," and urged an end to the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, which has caused widespread devastation and loss of life.

"My wish for the year 2025 is that the entire international community will work above all to end the conflict that, for almost three years now, has caused so much bloodshed," the pope said, referring to the Ukraine war. He also highlighted other global conflicts in countries such as Sudan, Mozambique, Myanmar, and Nicaragua.

The pope's remarks follow a recent escalation in his criticism of "Israel's" actions in Gaza, including a suggestion that the international community examine whether the campaign against Hamas could constitute genocide. This statement provoked backlash, with an Israeli minister publicly denouncing the pope's comments in December.

Beyond addressing conflicts, Francis reiterated his calls for urgent action on climate change and expressed concerns about the spread of misinformation through social media.

Pope's plea for peace

The pope has consistently advocated for a ceasefire in the embattled Strip. Reflecting on the scale of the ongoing genocide, he remarked that the war has become "too much."

In his annual Christmas message last month, Pope Francis urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. He expressed his concern for the Christian communities in the region, particularly in Gaza, where conditions have deteriorated significantly.

"I think of the Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation is extremely grave. May there be a ceasefire, may the hostages be released and aid be given to the people worn out by hunger and by war," he said.

The pontiff extended his plea for peace to Sudan, which has been gripped by a brutal civil war for nearly two years, leaving millions at risk of famine.

"May the Son of the Most High sustain the efforts of the international community to facilitate access to humanitarian aid for the civilian population of Sudan and to initiate new negotiations for a ceasefire," he said.