Pope Leo, the leader of the world's Catholics, called for an end to violence in Yemen during his speech from the Vatican window on Sunday. This speech came less than two weeks after his surgery for lung cancer, in which the Pope referred to the difficult humanitarian situation in the city of Taiz, Yemen.
Concerns About the Humanitarian Situation in Yemen
Pope Leo expressed particular concern about the humanitarian situation in the city of Taiz, where people are suffering due to a lack of food, water, and medical assistance. He said in a strong and clear voice: "I sincerely ask all parties to stop hostilities so that the people of Yemen and the entire region can live in peace."
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This speech took place as Pope Leo had recently undergone surgery to remove a tumor from his lung. He had surgery on October 13 and subsequently announced that he had recovered and did not need further treatment.
Call for Religious Solidarity and Prayer for Peace
Pope Leo also prayed for the victims of the terrorist attack on the Hamoud Church in Jordan that occurred on Friday, emphasizing his solidarity with that community and all countries known for peaceful coexistence of different religions.
Pope Leo urged everyone to join in prayer on Tuesday for a gathering of religious leaders being held in the city of Assisi, Italy. Although he was supposed to attend this event, he canceled the trip for the sake of his recovery on the advice of doctors.
Pope Leo, 71, notably smiled and waved to the crowd present in St. Peter's Square during this speech, demonstrating his determination to continue serving the Catholic community and addressing global issues. He also asked people to pray for peace and coexistence for all people in Yemen and other parts of the world.
