Pope Francis calls for unity amid rising death toll in Türkiye, Syria quakes
Pope Francis called for solidarity and unity amid the rising number of fatalities in Türkiye and Syria earthquakes.
"Now is the time for compassion and for solidarity. Let us unite in our sorrow to help those who suffer in #Turkey and #Syria. May we build peace and fraternity in our world," said Pope Francis in a tweet on Thursday, Feb. 9.
The Pope emphasized the need "to put aside hatred, wars, and divisions that lead to self-destruction."
In another tweet, the Pontiff thanked the people who provided relief and encouraged everyone to offer help to the earthquake victims.
He urged all peoples to "continue praying for those who have lost their lives, as well as the injured, family members, and rescuers."
The death toll of the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes has exceeded 21,000 as of Feb. 10.
According to Türkiye Vice President Fuat Oktay, at least 17,674 people were killed in Türkiye, while 3,377 have reportedly died in Syria.
Global institutions such as the World Bank has promised to allot $1.78 billion to Türkiye for relief and recovery assistance.
Countries around the world have also deployed rescue teams to aid Turkish agencies and personnel in their search and rescue efforts.