Pope appeals for release of hostages in Iraq, decries violence

Published: 2004-04-19

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II appealed to radical groups in Iraq to show "feelings of humanity" and release the hostages they are holding. At the same time, the pope deplored the "inhuman" violence in the Holy Land, the day after the leader of the Palestinian militant organization Hamas was assassinated in an Israeli missile attack. The pope made his appeal April 18 after reciting midday prayers from his apartment window overlooking St. Peter's Square. "I am following with great sadness the tragic news coming out of the Holy Land and Iraq," the pope said. "May the bloodshed among brothers end. Such inhuman acts are contrary to the will of God," he said. The pope said he joined in the prayers of families "who are fearful for their loved ones, especially those who have been taken as hostages."

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