Pope Benedict urges Lebanon to find compromise

Vatican City: Pope Benedict on Sunday called for a dialogue and urged the Lebanese people to find a "reasonable compromise" to end the conflict in their country.

In St. Peter's Square, Benedict said he was monitoring "with deep concern" the developments in Lebanon where armed clashes have left many dead and wounded.

Beirut experienced four days of deadly fighting between fighters loyal to Hezbollah and pro-government gunmen.

"I consider it a duty to exhort the Lebanese to abandon every kind of aggressive confrontation that would bring their dear country toward the irreparable," Pope Benedict said.

The pope said that dialogue and mutual understanding were also key to give Lebanon back its security for a "dignified daily life rich in hope for tomorrow."