Pope demands 'urgent' action to protect civilians in Iraq

He greeted an interfaith group of Iraqis on hand in St Peter's Square, encouraging them in helping Iraq find reconciliation among various ethnic and religious groups.

Pope Francis has demanded "urgent" action to protect civilians in Iraq, saying forces involved in the battle for Mosul have an obligation to protect innocents following a recent spike in civilian casualties.

Francis issued a special appeal for peace in Iraq at the end of his general audience.