Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday called for “deep reflection” in the United States regarding the treatment of migrants held in detention, highlighting the impact on people who have lived peacefully in the country for years.

Speaking to reporters outside his Castel Gandolfo retreat, the Chicago-born pontiff stressed that the spiritual rights of detained migrants should be respected, and authorities should allow pastoral workers access to them. “Many have been separated from their families. Their spiritual needs must be attended to,” he said.

Pope Leo also addressed broader geopolitical issues, including U.S. military strikes on suspected drug traffickers near Venezuela, describing them as actions that “increase tension” and emphasizing the importance of dialogue.

On the Middle East, he called the initial phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire “very fragile” and urged parties to ensure the rights of all people. He also noted the complexity of Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank, stressing the need for justice for all communities.

Last month, Leo encouraged labor union leaders from Chicago to support immigrants and include minorities in their ranks.

Pope Leo is scheduled to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican on Thursday and will make his first papal visit to Turkey and Lebanon at the end of November.