Pope Leo Calls for End to Bombings and Urges Dialogue as Violence Escalates in the Middle East

VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo has appealed for an immediate end to the violence in Iran and across the broader Middle East, urging world leaders to prioritize dialogue over military confrontation as tensions continue to rise in the region.

Speaking during the traditional Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, the pope said the international community was receiving deeply troubling reports from areas affected by the ongoing conflict. He warned that the continuing violence risks spreading further and deepening instability across neighboring countries.

“The news arriving from Iran and the Middle East is deeply worrying,” the pope told thousands gathered in the square. He stressed that the ongoing conflict is fueling fear, anger, and hatred among populations, creating conditions that could lead to wider regional escalation.

The pontiff also expressed particular concern about the potential impact on Lebanon, describing it as a nation close to his heart and already facing significant political and economic challenges.

“Let us raise our humble prayer to the Lord that the roar of bombs may cease, that weapons may fall silent, and that space may be opened for dialogue in which the voices of peoples can be heard,” he said.

The pope’s remarks come amid rising tensions following recent military exchanges involving Iran and other regional actors, which have heightened fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East. International leaders and organizations have increasingly called for restraint as the situation threatens to destabilize the region further.

Throughout his address, the pope emphasized that peace can only be achieved through diplomacy and mutual understanding, urging political leaders to choose negotiation rather than violence.

He concluded by calling on believers around the world to pray for peace and solidarity with all civilians affected by the conflict, stressing that ordinary people are often the greatest victims of war.

The Vatican has consistently advocated diplomatic solutions to international disputes and has repeatedly urged global powers to pursue dialogue in order to prevent further humanitarian suffering in the region.