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VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis appealed for peace in the Middle East on Sunday, warning against the expansion of the ongoing conflict and calling for immediate dialogue to end hostilities.
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Speaking to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square after the Angelus prayer, the pontiff expressed deep concern over the intensifying violence in the region.
“The current situation in the Middle East is already exceptionally violent and bloody,” Pope Francis stated. “We must prevent its further expansion.”
The Pope emphasized that military actions and targeted strikes are not viable solutions to the crisis. “These tactics only breed more hatred and vengeance, rather than paving the way for justice and peace,” he said.
In his address, the Holy Father made several key appeals:
- Immediate ceasefire in Gaza and all conflict zones
- Release of hostages
- Provision of humanitarian aid to affected populations
- Resumption of diplomatic dialogue
Vatican News reported that Pope Francis stressed the importance of courage in restarting negotiations. “We need bold steps towards peace,” he urged.
The Pope’s comments come amid rising tensions and escalating violence in the Middle East, with international concerns growing over the potential for wider regional conflict.
As the spiritual leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics, Pope Francis’s call for peace carries significant moral weight on the global stage. His message underscores the Vatican’s ongoing efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation in conflict zones worldwide.
