Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has passed away at the age of 88, the Vatican confirmed in a video statement on Monday.

His death marks the end of a 12-year papacy that was often characterised by both reformist efforts and significant internal challenges.

Pope Francis had faced numerous health problems in recent years, including surgeries and ongoing ailments, which had affected his ability to fully carry out his duties.

The Vatican has not yet announced details regarding his funeral or the process of selecting his successor.

Yesterday, Pope Francis appealed for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and condemned the dire humanitarian conditions resulting from Israel’s military campaign in the region.

Speaking to thousands gathered in Vatican City for the Easter Sunday Mass, he called for peace, the release of hostages, and global solidarity with both Israelis and Palestinians.

“I express my closeness to the sufferings … of all the Israeli people and the Palestinian people,” read the statement. “I appeal to the warring parties: call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace.”