Vatican City, Jan. 11 -- Pope Leo on Sunday expressed deep concern over escalating violence in the Middle East and Ukraine, offering prayers for peace and urging renewed dialogue to end conflicts that continue to claim civilian lives.

During his address, the Pope said his thoughts were with people affected by unrest in West Asia, particularly Iran and Syria, where prolonged instability has led to widespread suffering.

"My thoughts turn to the situation currently unfolding in the Middle East, especially in Iran and Syria, where ongoing tensions continue to claim many lives. I hope and pray that dialogue and peace may be patiently nurtured in pursuit of the common good of the whole of society, Pope Leo XIV wrote in an X post.

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