Pope Francis expressed his deep concern on Sunday regarding the increasing tensions in Jerusalem and called for dialogue and moderation to help restore peace, according to Reuters.

“I am following with trepidation the grave tension and violence of recent days in Jerusalem. I feel the need to express a heartfelt call for moderation and dialogue,” said the Pope to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square.

He urged the masses to pray for reconciliation and peace in Jerusalem.

Tension remains high in Jerusalem after the death of four Palestinians and the injury of hundreds of others in demonstrations against against the newly-implemented security procedures Israel is applying in Al Aqsa Mosque.

The heightened security at Al Aqsa comes after three Palestinian assailants shot and killed two Israeli policemen in Jerusalem's Old City last Friday. The attackers were subsequently shot dead by Israeli forces inside the compound.