Srinagar, April 18 -- Chief cleric of Jamia Masjid in Srinagar, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, while delivering the Friday sermon, hailed the stand of Pope Leo against war, while urging the global religious leaders to unite for peace and justice.

Addressing the people at the historic Jamia Masjid, Mirwaiz said that this year's Hajj pilgrimage comes amid the turmoil in Middle East. "Hajj pilgrims will begin their blessed journey from tomorrow, prayers are with them for a safe journey and acceptance of their Hajj. This year, their journey comes at a time when the world, especially the Middle East, is going through a deep turmoil. Across the Middle East, especially in Iran, Lebanon and Palestine we are witnessing immense suffering, bloodshed, and unc...