GAZA: American pop star Madonna has expressed deep concern for the children in Gaza suffering from hunger, urging Pope Leo XIV, leader of the Catholic Church, to visit Gaza before it’s too late. In a post on Instagram, she wrote: “Please go to Gaza before it’s too late and bring your light to the children. As a mother, I cannot bear their suffering. The children of the world belong to all of us, and you are the only one whose entrance is not barred. Humanitarian aid must flow to save these innocent children.” Madonna noted that her message was motivated by the upcoming birthday of her son Rocco, adding: “The best gift I can give is to ask everyone to help save the children caught in the Gaza war.” She emphasized that she does not take sides, stating: “Everyone is suffering, including the mothers of hostages. I pray they are freed, and I will do everything I can to ensure children do not die of hunger.” The Associated Press reported that the Pope has recently called for an immediate ceasefire and urged the international community to respect humanitarian laws and protect civilians. After months of Israeli blockade on Gaza and disruptions in aid delivery, healthy children are now at risk of death due to severe malnutrition. The United Nations has reported that over 5,000 children in Gaza suffered from acute malnutrition in May, likely an underestimation of the actual situation.
