Pope backs UN chief's call for global ceasefire to focus on coronavirus

Pope Francis says a "joint commitment against the pandemic" would unite countries.

Pope Francis gives the Urbi et Orbi Blessing at the end of a universal moment of prayer for end to coronavirus pandemic in St Peters Basilica. Source: AAP

Pope Francis backed a call by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for an "immediate global ceasefire" so the world can focus on fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking at his weekly blessing, Francis appealed to everyone to "stop every form of bellicose hostility and to favor the creation of corridors for humanitarian help, diplomatic efforts and attention to those who find themselves in situations of great vulnerability".

Guterres made the appeal on Monday on the fifth anniversary of Saudi Arabia's intervention in Yemen's civil war.

Pope Francis presides over a universal moment of prayer for end to coronavirus pandemic. Source: AAP

Several explosions shook the Saudi capital Riyadh late on Saturday, which the Saudi-led military coalition blamed on Yemen's Iran-aligned Huthi rebels, who have repeatedly targeted Saudi cities with missiles, rockets and drones.

The attack came with the Saudi capital under curfew imposed to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Pope Francis pointed out that Guterres's call for a ceasefire came during "the current COVID-19 emergency, which knows no borders".

"The joint commitment against the pandemic can lead everyone to recognise our need to strengthen our fraternal ties as members of one human family," the pontiff said.

Saudi Arabia, the Yemeni government and the rebels all welcomed Guterres's appeal.

Additional reporting: AFP