Pope Leo appeals for peace in Yemen as humanitarian crisis hits Taiz

Pope Leo on Sunday (October 25) expressed concern about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen, appealing for peace in the country and the wider conflict-stricken region.

Fighting between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-allied Houthi group since September has cut key supply routes, worsening shortages of water, food and fuel in and around Yemen’s Taiz city.

Leo also offered his prayers to the victims of the shooting at a Greek Orthodox church in Hamoud, Jordan, where nine people died and 40 were wounded on Friday (October 23).

“Never has it been more evident than today that wars, as well as sowing death and destruction, impoverish and harm the world,” the Pope said as he prayed for peace before the crowds in St Peter’s Square.

Leo, who was diagnosed with lung cancer and had part of his right lung removed in surgery on October 13, spoke clearly during his address from the window of the Apostolic Palace.

Following medical advice, he cancelled a planned October 27 visit to the Italian town of Assisi in order to avoid a helicopter flight. The Vatican has not said whether he will be able to go ahead with a scheduled November 6-17 trip to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.