The following is the telegram of condolences for the victims of the air crash that took place near Teheran Imam-Khomeini International Airport, Iran, sent to the Ukrainian civil authorities by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, on behalf of the Holy Father:

Telegram

Having learned with deep sadness of the crash of the Ukrainian International Airlines passenger plane near Tehran, His Holiness Pope Francis commends the souls of the deceased to the merciful love of the Almighty, and he sends condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. Upon all affected by this tragedy, His Holiness invokes God’s blessings of strength and peace.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Secretary of State