Pope Francis is urging the international community to find a way to "re-establish the rule of law" in Iraq.

During his Sunday blessing, Francis pleaded for those who have been "brutally forced from their homes, children who have died from thirst during the escape and women who have been seized." He also bemoaned the destruction of religious, historic and cultural treasures.

The pope is sending his personal emissary to Iraq to show solidarity with Christians and others being persecuted.

 

[Associated Press]

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