Pope Leo XIV has called for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict involving Iran, urging world leaders to prioritize dialogue over violence following deadly strikes on schools and civilian areas.
Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful message on Sunday, calling for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing war involving Iran. His remarks came in response to deadly strikes that have targeted schools and civilian areas, marking his strongest appeal yet for peace in the region.
Speaking at the end of his Sunday noon blessing at the Vatican, the pope urged leaders involved in the conflict to halt the violence and seek dialogue instead of escalating military actions. “On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East and all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict,” Leo stated. “Cease fire so that avenues for dialogue may be reopened. Violence can never lead to the justice, stability, and peace that the people are waiting for.”
While the pope did not specifically mention the United States or Israel, his comments appeared to reference a recent attack that occurred in the early days of the conflict, which struck a school in Iran and resulted in the deaths of more than 165 people, many of whom were children. U.S. officials have indicated that the strike may have been based on outdated intelligence, and an investigation into the incident is currently underway.
Pope Leo expressed particular sympathy for the families of victims who have suffered due to attacks on schools, hospitals, and residential areas throughout the conflict. He also voiced concerns about the escalating violence in Lebanon, where humanitarian organizations have warned that the situation could lead to a severe crisis.
The plight of Christian communities in southern Lebanon is of special concern to the Vatican, as these communities have historically played a significant role in the region, which is predominantly Muslim. For much of the two weeks since the conflict began, Pope Leo has focused on broader appeals for peace and dialogue, refraining from direct criticism of the U.S. or Israel—a stance that aligns with the Vatican’s long-standing tradition of diplomatic neutrality.
However, some Catholic leaders have taken a more direct approach regarding the conflict. Cardinal Robert McElroy, the archbishop of Washington, described the war as morally unjustifiable, while Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago criticized the White House for sharing social media posts about the war that included video game-style imagery.
In contrast, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin has rejected the characterization of the fighting as a “preventive war” by Washington. He emphasized that the Holy See continues to maintain open lines of communication with all parties involved. “The Holy See speaks with everyone,” Parolin stated. “When necessary we speak also with the Americans, with the Israelis and show them what to us are the solutions.”
The pope’s call for peace comes at a critical time as the conflict continues to escalate, affecting countless civilians and raising alarms about the potential for a broader humanitarian crisis in the region. As the situation develops, the Vatican remains committed to advocating for dialogue and reconciliation among all parties involved.
According to The Associated Press, the pope’s remarks underscore the urgent need for a cessation of hostilities and a renewed commitment to peace in the Middle East.