At his weekly general audience Pope Francis called for an immediate cease fire in Syria - even if temporary - so that civilians, especially children, could be rescued from the ruins.
Emphasising that his thoughts and prayers are with "all victims of the inhumane conflict in Syria," the Pope said it was with "a sense of urgency that I renew my appeal, imploring - with all my strength - those responsible so that an immediate cease fire be arranged."
He asked the cease fire be "implemented and respected at least for the time needed to allow for the evacuation of civilians, most of all children, who are still trapped under fierce bombings."
