Pope Leo XIV Urges End to Violence in Iran Conflict

On Sunday, Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Catholic Church, voiced significant concern regarding the escalating conflict involving Iran, warning that violence could spread throughout the Middle East. He urged for an immediate cessation of hostilities during his address at the Angelus prayer in St.

Peter's Square. The pontiff's remarks came as the conflict entered its ninth day, following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets, which have exacerbated violence in the region.

Pope Leo XIV highlighted the urgent need to stop the violence and open channels for peaceful dialogue, stating, "Let us raise a humble prayer that the roar of bombs may cease and weapons may fall silent, allowing space for dialogue and the voices of the people to be heard." His comments reflect growing international alarm over the military campaign by the United States and Israel, with the Vatican's top diplomat criticizing the strikes and emphasizing that no country has the right to initiate a war.