In his traditional Christmas day Urbi et Orbi message, the Pontiff prayed that Syrians might “find fraternity after long years of war” and that Yemen’s recent truce would bring relief to its people and children “exhausted by war and famine”.

“May beloved Syria at last recover respect for the dignity of every person through a shared commitment to rebuild the fabric of society, without regard for ethnic and religious membership.”

Not a single destroyed house has been rebuilt and at least 100,000 people remain displaced.

Tens of thousands of families lack adequate shelter while the blockade "dramatically impedes rebuilding" and contributes to desperation, bishops warn.

UN Security Council urged to immediately take all necessary measures to end new cycle of violence in Israel and Palestine.

Concern over attacks by Israeli military on Gaza's civilian population and firing of rockets by militants from Gaza on Israeli civilians.

"We pray that the visit of Pope Francis to the Holy Land will reinforce hope in the region."