Pope Benedict XVI launched an urgent appeal for an end to bloodshed in Syria yesterday, calling on the international community to do everything to help resolve the conflict.

“I continue to follow with alarm the tragic and growing episodes of violence in Syria with the sad succession of deaths and injuries,” the Pope said following his weekly Angelus prayers at his summer residence near Rome.

“I renew an urgent appeal to bring an end to all violence and bloodshed,” he said,calling for “no effort to be spared, particularly on the part of the international community, to reach a just political solution to the conflict”.

The Pontiff said his thoughts went in particular to the “huge number of internally displaced people and refugees in the neighbouring countries,” and asked that they be guaranteed the “necessary humanitarian assistance and help”.

In his speech from a balcony at Castel Gandolfo near Rome, Pope Benedict told hundreds of flag-waving pilgrims that he was also concerned about recent violence in Iraq, and prayed the situation in the country would stabilise.

“My thoughts also go to the dear nation of Iraq, which has been hit by numerous, serious attacks which have caused many deaths and injuries,” he said.

“May this great country find the path of stability, of reconciliation and of peace,” he added.