Pope Leo XIV has made a strong appeal for the release of journalists who have been imprisoned "for seeking and reporting the truth" while simultaneously cautioning media professionals against using their platforms to incite hatred.

The Pontiff made these remarks on Monday during his introductory audience with media representatives at the Vatican's Paul VI audience hall, just days after his election as the new leader of the Catholic Church.

"Peace begins with each one of us — in the way we look at others, listen to others and speak about others," Pope Leo told the assembled journalists. "Let me, therefore, reiterate today the Church's solidarity with journalists who are imprisoned for seeking and reporting the truth, while also asking for their release."

The 69-year-old Pope, who was elected by cardinals in a secret conclave last Thursday, has quickly established his priorities since assuming leadership of the Catholic Church. On Sunday, during his second official public appearance from the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, he called for an end to global conflicts.

Pope Leo specifically appealed for "a genuine, just and lasting peace in Ukraine" and expressed deep sadness regarding the situation in the Gaza Strip, calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.

His comments on media freedom come at a time when press freedom faces significant challenges globally, with numerous journalists detained in various countries for their reporting activities.

The Pope's dual message emphasized both the importance of press freedom and the responsibility that comes with it, suggesting that media professionals should uphold truth while avoiding language that might promote division or hatred.