Cliff Notes – Pope speaks in public for first time in five weeks
- The Pope speaks in public for first time in five weeks.
- The Pope expressed sorrow over the renewed Israeli bombings in Gaza, condemning the violence and calling for an immediate ceasefire and dialogues for hostage release.
- He welcomed the progress towards a final peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, urging swift signing to facilitate lasting peace in the region.
- In his prayer, he called for an end to wars and invoked peace for conflict-ridden areas including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and others.
Pope speaks in public for first time in five weeks before leaving hospital
Pope ‘saddened’ by Israeli bombing – but pleased by potential Armenia-Azerbaijan deal
The Pope wasn’t well enough to say many words when he appeared from hospital earlier – as was expected, given his condition.
We reported earlier that it’s significant he chose to appear at 11am – midday in Rome – as it coincides with the Pope’s traditional Angelus prayer given every Sunday (see our 10.35am post).
In today’s prayer, published now by the Vatican in written form, he said he has “had the opportunity to experience the Lord’s patience” while in hospital.
International focus
He added he is “saddened” by “the resumption of heavy Israeli bombing on the Gaza Strip, causing many deaths and injuries”.
“I call for an immediate halt to the weapons; and for the courage to resume dialogue, so that all hostages may be released and a final ceasefire reached,” he said.
“On the other hand, I am pleased that Armenia and Azerbaijan have agreed on the final text of the peace agreement.
“I hope that it may be signed as soon as possible, and may thus contribute to establishing lasting peace in the South Caucasus.”
He also called to pray “for an end to wars and for peace”, especially in “tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo”.