Pope Francis renewed his call for an "immediate ceasefire," while at the same time demanding "respect" for the UN peacekeeping forces in the region.

 
The Pope said during his missionary prayer from the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square: "I continue to follow with concern what is happening in the Middle East."

 
He added, "Let us pursue the paths of diplomacy and dialogue to achieve peace," affirming his feeling of being close to all the concerned peoples: Palestine, Israel, and Lebanon.

 
Pope Francis prayed for the victims, the displaced, and the hostages, saying he hopes for their immediate release. 

 
The Pope expressed his hope that "this great and unnecessary suffering, which stemmed from hatred and revenge, would soon come to an end." 

The Pope had criticized the Israeli bombing of Lebanon, describing it as "a violation of moral principles."