Pope Leo calls for end to Yemen violence after lung surgery

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 25 Oct, 17:02 · Archive

Pope Leo has called for an end to violence in Yemen less than two weeks after surgery for lung cancer.

Pope Leo called for an end to violence in Yemen during an address to the Catholic faithful from a window over St Peter's Square, less than two weeks after undergoing lung surgery. The 71-year-old pontiff expressed particular concern for the southwestern Yemeni city of Taiz, where he said 'the population suffers due to the lack of food, water and medical assistance'. He made his appeal in a firm and clear voice, saying 'I'm making a heartfelt appeal for the hostilities to stop, so that the people in Yemen and across the entire region can live in peace.'

He also prayed for those killed and wounded in what he called a 'terrorist attack against Orthodox faithful' at the Hamoud church in Jordan on Friday. The pope said he was close to that community and the country, which he described as 'known for the peaceful and respectful coexistence of different religions'.

Pope Leo had the lower lobe of his right lung removed on 13 October after being diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, the most common form of lung cancer. Doctors said last week he would not need further therapy, indicating the tumour had not spread. He reached the window unaided and waved to crowds, cancelling a planned visit to a meeting of religious leaders in Assisi on Tuesday on medical advice.

How it is being reported

• Pope Leo calls for Yemen violence to endPope Leo has drawn attention to the humanitarian situation in Yemen during an address from a window over St Peter's Square.The West Australian · 25 Oct, 16:27
• Pope Leo calls for Yemen violence to endPope Leo has drawn attention to the humanitarian situation in Yemen during an address from a window over St Peter's Square.Perth Now · 25 Oct, 16:26

In this story: Pope Leo · Yemen · Taiz · St Peter's Square · Jordan · Hamoud church · Assisi

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