Vatican City, Mar 27, 2011 / 11:46 am
Praying for peace in Libya, Pope Benedict XVI has issued a “heartfelt appeal” to political leaders to begin immediate talks to halt the use of weapons.
His fear for the safety and security of civilians has grown, as has his concern about the developments in the armed conflict, he told a crowd of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square after the Sunday Angelus prayers.
Rebel forces backed by France, Britain, Spain and the United States are challenging forces loyal to Libyan leader Moammar Ghadafi.
In times of “high tension,” the Pope said, the need becomes more urgent to resort to every means of diplomatic action and to support the “weak signs” of willingness to find “peaceful and lasting solutions.”