Pope Francis Addresses Audience Amid Flu Recovery

Vatican City: Pope Francis made an appearance at his weekly audience in the Vatican’s Paul IV hall, a day after canceling his trip to the COP 28 climate summit in Dubai due to health issues.

Sounding a bit wheezy, the 86-year-old pontiff limited his speaking, citing ongoing flu symptoms. An aide read his main text on the doctor’s advice.

Despite improvement in his general condition, doctors advised against the Dubai trip. The audience, held indoors, saw a packed hall welcoming the Pope with applause and chants of “Viva il papa” (“Long live the pope”).

Pope Francis, expressing concern for Gaza, called for a truce, release of hostages, and humanitarian aid access. He also mentioned Ukraine, emphasizing the human toll of war.