Released Israeli-American soldier hostage Edan Alexander was reunited with his family in Israel on Monday after held hostage for more than 19 months in the Gaza Strip. The pontiff also called on reporters not to use divisive language.

Leo urged an end to the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. "I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people," he said. "Let us do everything possible to reach a genuine, just and lasting peace as soon as possible. May all prisoners be freed and children be able to return to their families."