VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo addressed a meeting with Catholic bishops and aid agencies in the Vatican on Thursday, expressing deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

The pontiff characterized these conflicts as being waged with an unprecedented 'diabolical intensity' and called for greater respect of international law to alleviate the suffering of affected populations.

According to Pope Leo, countries within the region are experiencing devastation due to wars and the manipulation of special interests.

He further noted that a pervasive cloud of hatred has exacerbated conditions, rendering some areas uninhabitable.

Specifically, he highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza as 'tragic and inhumane.'

Pope Leo previously appealed for increased humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza last month, though he did not directly attribute this issue to any specific nation during his remarks on Thursday.

The recent 12-day war involving Israel and Iran, which also saw US military action targeting suspected Iranian nuclear facilities, was indirectly referenced by the Pope.

He lamented the prevalence of the 'principle of might makes right' in international relations, advocating for the reestablishment of respect for international law and humanitarian principles.

Pope Leo emphasized that the alleged right to coerce others has replaced the binding force of these laws in many current situations, which he found deeply troubling.

He called on global leaders to prioritize adherence to international standards and to refrain from actions that undermine peace efforts.