Vatican City: Pope Leo has described the ongoing war in the Middle East as a “scandal to the whole human family,” renewing his call for an immediate ceasefire and an end to the suffering.

Speaking during his weekly Angelus prayer at St Peter’s Square, the Pope said he continues to follow developments in the region with “dismay,” highlighting the heavy toll of violence on innocent civilians.

“We cannot remain silent in the face of the suffering of so many people, the defenceless victims of these conflicts. What hurts them hurts the whole of humanity,” he said, urging the global community to persist in prayer and efforts toward peace.

He further stressed the need to end hostilities and pave the way for lasting peace, calling on all sides to act with responsibility and compassion.

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