Pope Francis, addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square, referred to the developments in the Middle East.

“Attacks – and those that are considered targeted – as well as murders, can never be a solution. They do not help us to follow the path of peace, of justice. They produce more hatred and revenge”stressed Francis. “Enough, sisters and brothers, enough. Do not suffocate the word of God, peace, but let it become the fruit of the Holy Land”he added.

“The necessary courage must be found to resume dialogue and to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and on all fronts. The hostages must be released, humanitarian aid must be given to the civilian population”, Francis said. Finally, he mentioned the explosion that occurred in the port of Beirut four years ago. “And today, the people of Lebanon are suffering a lot, I do not forget the families of the victims of the explosion that took place in the port of Beirut. Justice must be served and the truth must prevail”, concluded the pontiff.