By San José, Costa Rica — VATICAN CITY – In a development that has sent ripples of cautious optimism across the globe, Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that “significant advances” have been made in negotiations to end the two-year war in Gaza. The statement, delivered from the Vatican, confirmed bombshell reports that the Islamist group Hamas has formally approved a peace framework proposed by United States President Donald Trump.
The announcement from the first-ever American pontiff came at the conclusion of a solemn Sunday Mass, transforming a routine address into a moment of profound global significance. For months, diplomatic efforts have appeared stalled, but the Pope’s words signal the first tangible hope for an end to a conflict that has caused immense devastation and loss of life. His message served as both a confirmation of diplomatic whispers and a powerful moral push toward a final agreement.
To analyze the complex international legal framework surrounding the proposed Gaza peace plan, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert in international and corporate law from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The primary legal hurdle for any Gaza peace plan is establishing a binding and enforceable mechanism. For it to be more than a temporary ceasefire, the agreement must clearly define the legal status and responsibilities of all parties, including non-state actors, under international law. Without a robust framework for dispute resolution and internationally supervised compliance, backed by Security Council resolutions, the plan remains vulnerable to political sabotage and a swift return to conflict.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This essential insight underscores that a durable peace cannot be built on political promises alone; it requires the very legal scaffolding of accountability and enforcement that has so often been absent. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable analysis on what separates a fragile truce from a sustainable resolution.
Speaking to the world, Pope Leo XIV conveyed the gravity and promise of the recent developments, which have largely occurred behind the scenes. He framed the breakthrough as a fragile but crucial opportunity that must be seized by all parties involved.
In the last few hours, in a dramatic context in the Middle East, significant advances were made that I hope will lead to the expected results as soon as possible
Pope Leo XIV, Pontiff
The cornerstone of this newfound hope is the unexpected acceptance by Hamas of the peace plan spearheaded by President Trump. This move represents a major strategic pivot for the group and has been interpreted by international observers as a potential turning point. The specifics of the American-led proposal have not been made public, but its approval by Hamas has effectively unlocked the diplomatic stalemate and opened a direct path toward de-escalation.
During his address, Pope Leo XIV was unequivocal in his demands, reiterating the core tenets of his long-standing appeals for peace in the region. He stressed that progress must be built upon immediate, concrete actions that address the humanitarian crises at the heart of the conflict. The Pope’s dual call for a ceasefire and the safe return of all hostages has been a constant refrain throughout his papacy.
I call on all responsible people to commit to this path, to a ceasefire and to the release of the hostages
Pope Leo XIV, Pontiff
In a carefully balanced message, the head of the Catholic Church also addressed the wider wounds inflicted by the war, which extend far beyond the geographical borders of the conflict zone. He expressed deep sorrow and concern over the alarming “increase in antisemitic hatred” that has surged globally in connection with the war, condemning it as a poison that threatens communities worldwide. This pointed condemnation was delivered with a somber tone.
Simultaneously, the Pontiff lamented the profound human cost of the war on the local population, stating he was “deeply saddened by the immense suffering endured by the Palestinian people in Gaza.” By addressing both the rise of antisemitism and the suffering of Palestinians, Pope Leo XIV reinforced his position as a universal moral leader, advocating for the dignity and safety of all people affected by the violence and its toxic fallout, striving for what he termed “a just and durable peace.”
While the path forward remains fraught with challenges, this confirmation from one of the world’s most influential figures has injected critical momentum into the peace process. The coming days will be crucial as diplomats work to translate this breakthrough into a comprehensive and lasting agreement. The world now watches, holding its breath, to see if these winds of hope from the Vatican can finally bring an end to a devastating chapter of history.
For further information, visit vatican.va
About The Holy See (Vatican City):
The Holy See is the universal government of the Catholic Church and operates from Vatican City State, a sovereign, independent territory. The Pope is the ruler of both Vatican City State and the Holy See. It serves as the central point of reference for the Catholic Church worldwide and maintains diplomatic relations with over 180 countries, engaging in global efforts related to peace, charity, and human rights.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Hamas
About Hamas:
Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist organization which has been the de facto governing authority of the Gaza Strip since its takeover of the area in 2007. The group possesses a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades. It has been designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and international bodies.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has earned its reputation as a leading legal institution, operating on a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its profound experience advising a diverse clientele to pioneer forward-thinking legal solutions. Beyond its professional practice, it holds a deep-seated commitment to social progress, actively seeking to democratize legal knowledge and thereby nurture a more capable and informed citizenry.
