VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis on Sunday made a pressing appeal against a spiral of violence after Iran’s unprecedented drone and missile attack on Israel, warning of a potential regional conflagration.
Following his traditional Sunday prayer in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican, the Argentinean pontiff said that he was appealing for an end to any action which could fuel a spiral of violence that risks dragging the Middle East region into an even wider conflict.
The Pope said that he was praying and following with concern and pain, the news that has come in recent hours about the worsening situation in Israel due to Tehran’s intervention.
Pope Francis Reiterates His Calls
He added that no one should threaten the existence of others. All nations must side with peace and help Palestinians and Israelis to live in two states, side by side and in peace.
That is their right, Pope added, repeating his earlier calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and talks.
He demanded the world help the population facing a humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for immediate release of the hostages abducted months ago by Hamas, setting in train the latest chapter of violence in the region.
