Pope: Nothing can justify use of chemical weapons in Syria

Latest: Pope Francis has closed his traditional Sunday blessing by saying "nothing can justify" the use of chemical weapons against defenceless people, and called for those responsible for a suspected attack in Syria to seek negotiations.

Update 1.07pm: Pope Francis has closed his traditional Sunday blessing by saying "nothing can justify" the use of chemical weapons against defenceless people, and called for those responsible for a suspected attack in Syria to seek negotiations.

The Pope referred to news of dozens killed, including many children and women, in a suspected poison gas attack on a rebel-held town near the Syrian capital.