ROME (AP) — Pope Francis is denouncing the weapons industry in his Christmas Day appeal for peace in the world and in particular between Israel and the Palestinians. Francis delivered his annual Christmas Day speech from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica to the throngs of people in the piazza below. Francis said he grieved the “abominable attack” of Hamas against southern Israel on Oct. 7 and called for the release of hostages. And he begged for an end to Israel’s campaign in Gaza and the “appalling harvest of innocent civilians” as he called for humanitarian aid to reach the strip. (Photo: AP)