"Pope Leo XIV, during his Sunday Angelus address at St. Peter's Square, reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire, expressing deep concern for people affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. "I renew my prayerful closeness to all those who have lost loved ones in the attacks, which have struck schools, hospitals, and residential areas," the pontiff said. He also called the situation in Lebanon a 'cause of great concern' while urging the country's leadership to 'implement' dialogue towards a lasting solution for all Lebanese people. "On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East and of all women and men of goodwill, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict. Ceasefire, let the paths of dialogue be reopened. Violence can never bring about the justice, stability, and peace that the people await," he continued. This comes after Israeli strikes on Lebanon following Hezbollah's announcement of its involvement in the war between Tehran on one side and Tel Aviv and Washington on the other, describing its operations as 'revenge' for the killing of the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.  Israel has retaliated by targeting several southern villages and conducting airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut.  According to its latest figures, Israeli strikes on Lebanon since March 2 have killed at least 850 people and injured 2,105 others."