VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis has unequivocally denounced the “indiscriminate striking” of civilians in conflicts, declaring it a war crime that violates international humanitarian law.
In his annual address to diplomats representing 184 countries, the 87-year-old pontiff addressed a range of global issues, including conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, during the 45-minute speech often referred to as his “state of the world” address.
Pope Francis emphasized the gravity of targeting civilians in warfare, highlighting the clear violation of international humanitarian norms. His remarks come at a time when conflicts in various regions have witnessed civilian populations bearing the brunt of violence.
In addition to addressing the situations in the Middle East and Ukraine, the Pope touched upon conflicts in Africa and Asia, expressing concern over the challenges faced by those regions. He also drew attention to migration crises in the United States and Latin America, underlining the urgent need for compassionate responses to displaced populations.
Climate change, a recurring theme in Pope Francis’s messages, was once again a focal point in his diplomatic address. The Pope stressed the importance of collective efforts to address environmental issues and work towards sustainable solutions.
Furthermore, the pontiff condemned the persecution of Christians worldwide, shedding light on the challenges faced by religious communities in different parts of the globe.
