Pope Leo XIV delivers first Christmas message calling for end to violence in Middle East, Russia-Ukraine war

Speaking to tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square for his first Christmas "Urbi et Orbi" address, Latin for "to the city and to the world," Pope Leo prayed for "justice, peace and stability for Lebanon, Palestine, Israel and Syria."

"May the clamor of weapons cease, and may the parties involved, with the support and commitment of the international community, find the courage to engage in sincere, direct and respectful dialogue," he said.

He urged world leaders to reject violence and indifference, stressing that peace must be rooted in justice, dialogue and solidarity with the most vulnerable.

"On this holy day, let us open our hearts to our brothers and sisters who are in need or in pain. In doing so, we open our hearts to the Child Jesus, who welcomes us with open arms and reveals his divinity to us," he added.