Pop star Madonna has publicly urged Pope Leo XIV to visit Gaza “before it’s too late” to help children suffering amid the war.

Axar.az, citing The Independent, reports that in a social media post marking her son Rocco’s 25th birthday, she appealed to the pontiff to “bring your light to the children” and press for humanitarian access.

Addressing Pope Leo XIV, she wrote: “Most Holy Father. Please go to Gaza and bring your light to the children before it’s too late. As a mother, I cannot bear to watch their suffering.

The children of the world belong to everyone. You are the only one of us who cannot be denied entry," she added. "We need the humanitarian gates to be fully opened to save these innocent children. There is no more time. Please say you will go. Love, Madonna.”

Madonna stressed she was not taking sides in the conflict, calling for the release of hostages and an end to children dying from starvation.

The pope has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and protection of civilians.