«Let us not allow the ongoing hostilities to continue to have serious repercussions on the civilian population, now exhausted, and above all on children. How much suffering we see in the eyes of children. The children in those lands of war forgot to smile . With their gaze they ask us: why? Why so much death? Why so much destruction? War is always an absurdity and a defeat! Let's not let ever stronger winds of war blow over Europe and the Mediterranean. Don't give in to the logic of weapons and rearmament . Peace is never built with weapons, but by holding out hands and opening hearts."
It is Pope Francis' message of peace in the Easter urbi et orbi .
«While I call for respect for the principles of international law, I hope for a general exchange of all prisoners between Russia and Ukraine: all for all! Furthermore, I once again appeal for the possibility of access to humanitarian aid in Gaza to be guaranteed, once again urging a prompt release of the hostages kidnapped on 7 October and an immediate ceasefire in the Strip ", continues the Pontiff.
Bergoglio also recalls other wars and other populations in crisis: Syria, the situation in Lebanon, in the Balkans, the conflict situation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, Haiti, Myanmar and the African continent.
He rails against human trafficking and asks that "the Risen One shine his light on migrants and those who are going through a period of economic difficulty, offering them comfort and hope in their time of need".
Finally, the celebration of life: «Often a despised gift. How many children can't even see the light? How many die of hunger or are deprived of essential care or are victims of abuse and violence? How many lives are commercialized due to the growing trade in human beings? May the light of the resurrection illuminate our minds and convert our hearts, making us aware of the value of every human life, which must be welcomed, protected and loved."
(Unioneonline/L)
