Pope Leo XIV on Sunday expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict involving Iran, warning that the violence could spread across the Middle East and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Speaking during the Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff described reports from Iran and the region as “disturbing,” noting that fighting had entered its ninth day following U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
“Alongside episodes of violence and devastation, there is growing concern that the conflict could spread and that other countries, including Lebanon, could once again sink into instability,” Pope Leo said, according to Reuters.
The pontiff urged urgent efforts to stop the violence and open channels for peaceful dialogue.
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“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 added.
Pope Leo’s remarks come amid rising international alarm over the military campaign by the United States and Israel.
Earlier in the week, the Vatican’s top diplomat criticised the strikes, warning that such actions undermine international law and stressing that no country has the right to launch “preventive wars.”