Pope Francis condemned the "horrific escalation" in Lebanon, deeming it "unacceptable," and called on the international community to make every effort to put an end to it amid rising bombardments between Israel and Hezbollah.

His remarks were made in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, following the weekly general audience, after recent military escalations between Hezbollah and the Israeli army that resulted in hundreds of casualties in recent days. The Holy Father also prayed for all peoples suffering from wars.

Pope Francis expressed sorrow over the news from Lebanon, where intense strikes in recent days have led to numerous casualties and destruction.

He hoped that the international community would exert every possible effort to stop this horrific escalation, stating, "This is unacceptable." He also expressed his solidarity with the Lebanese people, who have endured significant pain in the recent past.