Pope Leo XIV issued his appeal during the Angelus prayer. The pontiff spoke from St. Peter’s Square on March 1, 2026.
Moreover, he addressed the situation after United States and Israeli strikes killed Iran’s supreme leader and prompted retaliatory missile attacks.
Pope Voiced Grave Concern Over Violence
Pope Leo XIV described the news from the region as deeply disturbing. He highlighted episodes of violence, devastation and a growing climate of hatred and fear.“
Deeply disturbing news continues to arrive from Iran and the entire Middle East,” Pope Leo XIV said.
Pontiff Warned Of Wider Spread
Furthermore, the pope expressed fear that the conflict could expand. He specifically mentioned the risk to Lebanon and other nations in the region.“
In addition to the episodes of violence and devastation as well as the widespread climate of hatred and fear, there is also the concern that the conflict will spread and that other countries in the region, including beloved Lebanon, may again sink back into instability,” Pope Leo XIV stated.
Pope Urged Immediate Halt To Attacks
However, Pope Leo XIV appealed directly to all parties. He prayed for weapons to fall silent and for space to open for talks.“
We lift up our humble prayer to the Lord, so that the thunderous sound of bombs may cease, weapons may fall silent, and a space for dialogue may open up in which the voice of the people can be heard,” the pope declared.
Leader Called For Responsible Dialogue
Pope Leo XIV warned that continued fighting risked an irreparable abyss. He urged leaders to halt the spiral of violence without delay.“
I address to the parties involved a heartfelt appeal to assume the moral responsibility of halting the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss,” Pope Leo XIV said.