Pope Francis condemns 'UNACCEPTABLE MASSACRE' in Syria

'I express my spiritual closeness to their families and to all those who suffer because of this tragic event.'

Several Syrians died on Tuesday when chemicals were dropped on civilians in Idlib Province.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - The United States blames Syrian president Bashal Al-Asad, while Russia insists it was activists.

Regardless of who was at fault, witnesses reported some rescue workers became sick and collapsed simply from their close proximity to the dead.

According to the Health Department in Idlib Province, 69 people died, though other humanitarian groups reported numbers closer to 100.

Pope Francis called the slaughter "an unacceptable massacre" during his general audience Wednesday.

According to Crux, the pontiff stated: "I firmly deplore the unacceptable carnage that took place yesterday in Idlib province, where scores of helpless people, including many children, were killed."

He called for the "consciences of those with political responsibility, both locally and internationally, to cease this tragedy and bring relief to that dear population which, for too long, has been exhausted by war."

The pontiff continued, encouraging people to bring aid to the victims and to work hard "even amid insecurity and discomfort."

UN chief Antonio Guterres reported those responsible for the situation, which "demonstrated that war crimes are going on in Syria," would be investigated and reported as soon as possible.

Pope Francis also spoke of the "grave attack" in St. Petersberg, Russia. A blast killed 14 and injured nearly fifty more.

"While I entrust to God's mercy those who've tragically died, I express my spiritual closeness to their families and to all those who suffer because of this tragic event."

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