Pope Francis I spoke with critics in connection with the tough measures taken against protesters in Iraq, which led to the deaths of dozens of people, Reuters reported. 

“I am following the situation in Iraq with concern. It is with pain that I have learned of the protest demonstrations of the past days that were met with a harsh response, causing tens of victims,” Francis said at his weekly Sunday blessing and message.

He declared that he intends to visit Iraq next year and noted, speaking to tens of thousands of people in St. Peter's Square, that he prays for the dead and wounded.