VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis today symbolically addressed the tens of thousands of faithful gathered in St Peter's Square at the Vatican. Although he appeared in person on the balcony of St Peter's Basilica, the traditional Easter message Urbi et Orbi ("To the City and to the World") was delivered for him this time by the Pope's chief celebrant, Diego Ravelli.
The 87-year-old Pope, who has been struggling with serious health problems in recent months and recently underwent a long hospitalization, remains under medical supervision. His appearance was therefore limited, but his presence on the balcony was seen as an important gesture to the faithful and the world community.
In his message, Francis called for an immediate ceasefire between Hamas and Israel and appealed to political leaders to work for an end to the violence in the region. He placed particular emphasis on the need for peace in the Middle East, praying for the victims of the conflict and for all those suffering the consequences of the wars.
The Vatican has not yet released further details about the Pope's health, but it is expected that his schedule will continue to be adjusted according to his current condition.
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