Pope Francis, during his weekly general audience at the Vatican on Wednesday, made an emotional appeal to the international community, urging them to take immediate action to stop the escalating violence in Lebanon.
His remarks came after several days of intense Israeli airstrikes on the country, which have claimed the lives of hundreds.
The Pope, visibly moved by the ongoing conflict, called the situation “unacceptable” and implored global leaders to “make every effort to stop this terrible escalation.”
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic news coming out of Lebanon,” the Pope said, reflecting on the devastating impact the airstrikes have had on the Lebanese population. He voiced his solidarity with the people of Lebanon, stating, “My thoughts and prayers are with you, a nation that has already suffered too much in the recent past.”
His words were a reminder of Lebanon’s tumultuous history, marked by previous conflicts and socio-political unrest.
Since Monday, waves of Israeli airstrikes have targeted Lebanon, resulting in nearly 570 deaths and over 1,800 injuries, according to figures released by Lebanese health authorities.
The strikes have exacerbated an already volatile situation as Hezbollah and Israel continue to engage in cross-border attacks. This escalation began following the Israeli war on Gaza, which has claimed over 41,400 lives, most of whom are reported to be women and children.
Pope Francis’ plea comes at a time when international fears are growing over the potential for the conflict to expand beyond Gaza.
Many global leaders and organisations have warned that the Israeli strikes on Lebanon could lead to a broader regional conflict, involving multiple neighbouring countries.
Despite calls for restraint, the violence continues to escalate, threatening to plunge the entire Middle East into further chaos.
