In his remarks following the Angelus prayer, given from the Apostolic Palace, before thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff expressed that his thoughts turn to what is happening these days in the Middle East.

He referred in particular to the situation in Iran and Syria where, he said, “the persistent tensions are causing the death of many people,” and expressed his hope that “dialogue and peace will be cultivated patiently, seeking the common good of all society.”

He also spoke about the conflict in Ukraine, and made a new appeal for an end to the violence and for intensified efforts for peace.

On January 10, in his remarks during an audience with members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, Leo XIV also addressed the complex situation facing Venezuela following the US attack, as well as tensions in the Caribbean and the Latin American Pacific.

“I renew my appeal for respect for the will of the Venezuelan people and for efforts to protect the human and civil rights of all, and to build a future of stability and harmony,” he emphasized.

jdt/jav/oda/ort