Pope urges dialogue on Syria and Libya

Pope Benedict XVI called Sunday for a redoubling of efforts to restore peace in conflict-torn Syria and Libya. In his weekly address to pilgrims, the pontiff asked for the “legitimate aspirations” of the Syrian people to be met, while urging the international community to revive efforts for a Libyan peace plan. “I am following with deep concern the dramatic and increasing episodes of violence in Syria that have led to numerous victims and grave suffering,” the pontiff said at his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, outside Rome. Syrian security forces backed by tanks Sunday killed 20 civilians in the city of Deir Ezzor, rights activists said, and at least seven died in a central town as the army cracked down on protests.