Pope Francis has said the world is suffering from a "famine of peace", in his annual Christmas Day message from the Vatican.
He called for an end to the "senseless war" in Ukraine, condemning what he said was the use of "food as a weapon" of war.
Ukraine shipped about 30% of the world's wheat and prices have jumped since the Russian invasion in February.
It was Pope Francis' 10th Christmas Day address since he assumed the papacy.
While the war in Ukraine occupied much of his 10-minute speech, he remarked that "a grave famine of peace also in other regions and other theatres of this Third World War".
He singled out conflicts and humanitarian crises in the Middle East, Myanmar, Haiti, and the Sahel region of Africa.
The pontiff also prayed for "reconciliation" in Iran, where mass anti-government protests have swept the country for more than three months. The protests there have been met by a crackdown, with more than 500 people, including 69 children, killed, human rights groups say.
Speaking from a balcony at the basilica overlooking St Peter's Square, the 86-year-old Pope lamented the human cost of war. He urged not to forget those "who go hungry while huge amounts of food daily go to waste and resources are being spent on weapons".
"The war in Ukraine has further aggravated this situation, putting entire peoples at risk of famine, especially in Afghanistan and in the countries of the Horn of Africa," he said.
"We know that every war causes hunger and exploits food as a weapon, hindering its distribution to people already suffering."
The Pope said "those who hold political responsibilities" should lead the way to make food "solely an instrument of peace".
His message was followed by the customary Urbi et Orbi (To the City and to the World) blessing, recited in Latin and traditionally in many other languages as well.
Latest Stories
-
3 confirmed dead in Ejisu-Konongo Highway collision, 1 injured
10 mins -
Fatawu Issahaku gets assist as Leicester City beat Preston to win Championship title
30 mins -
Child’s right advocate criticises state’s handling of ‘victim’ in alleged child marriage case
31 mins -
NPP has created 2.1m jobs in seven years – Bawumia
44 mins -
Akosombo Dam spillage: We’re considering a class action suit against government – Ablakwa
48 mins -
Government offers teacher unions about 70% increment in continuous professional development allowance
1 hour -
Everyone must show interest in depleting pension funds – Pensions Expert
1 hour -
African Business Heroes: African SMEs ready to compete for a share of $1.5m grant
2 hours -
My government will partner with faith-based groups in development – Bawumia
2 hours -
Joy Prime’s Prime Morning to host show at sea in May Day celebration with Ghana Navy
2 hours -
Why increase contribution rate when you can’t manage what is given you? – NAGRAT asks SSNIT
2 hours -
There are greener pastures in Ghana – Prof Owusu-Dabo
4 hours -
Myjoyonline Interview with Abubakar Tahiru: Guinness World Record Holder for ‘Most Trees Hugged In An Hour’
4 hours -
JoyNews’ Clinton Yeboah honoured at 2023 Int’l Sports Media Awards in Spain
5 hours -
14 PWDs selected for maiden Africa Health Collaborative Medicine Counter Assistant training
5 hours