The Most Reverend Mitja Leskovar
Apostolic Nuncio in Iraq
Baghdad

His Holiness Pope Francis sends the assurance of his spiritual closeness to all affected by the tragic fire at the Covid isolation ward of the al-Hussein hospital in Nasiriyah. Deeply saddened, he prays especially for those who have died and for the comfort of their families and friends who mourn their loss. Upon the patients, staff and caregivers he invokes God’s blessings of consolation, strength and peace.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State

[Vatican-provided English text]