POPE Leo has called for a ceasefire in Gaza in his first Sunday blessing as pontiff.
The pope declared "never again war" to the masses gathered below the balcony of St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.
Pope Leo follows in the footsteps of his predecessor, Francis, who repeatedly called for a ceasefire in Gaza - such as in his last speech - and kept in consistent contact with the Holy Family parish church in Gaza throughout Israel's assault on the region.
Addressing the crowd at St Peter's Square in Rome, Leo said: "I am deeply hurt by what is happening in the Gaza Strip.
Recalling the end of the Second World War 80 years ago, Leo also quoted Pope Francis in denouncing the number of conflicts ravaging the globe today, saying it is a “third world war in pieces”.
In his speech, the Pope also called for lasting peace in Ukraine as he said: "I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people.
"May whatever is possible be done to reach an authentic, true and lasting peace as quickly as possible.
"May all the prisoners be freed, may children return to their families."
Hours before Leo was to appear to the public, St Peter’s Square filled up with pilgrims and well-wishers, joined by multiple marching bands that made grand entrances into the square.
Earlier on Sunday, Leo celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of St Peter, located at the St Mary Major Basilica.
The area, which is normally open to the public, also contains the tombs of past popes, including Benedict XVI.
The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary was elected the 267th Pope on Thursday, making him the first pontiff to hail from North America.
He appeared to the world from the same balcony at St Peter’s Basilica, offering a similar message of peace and unity.
