Pope Leo XIV has described the ongoing war involving Iran as “unjust” and incapable of resolving global tensions, calling for an immediate return to dialogue and peaceful negotiations.
In a recent interview, the pontiff urged world leaders and citizens to reject violence and prioritise diplomacy, warning that the conflict is worsening global instability.
“In English, I would simply say once again what I said in the message on Sunday — asking all people of goodwill to search always for peace and not violence, to reject war, especially a war which many people have said is an unjust war which is continuing to escalate and which is not resolving anything,” he said.
He noted that the conflict is deepening existing global challenges, including economic and energy crises, while fuelling instability in the Middle East.
“We have a worldwide economic crisis, energy crisis, and a situation in the Middle East of great instability which is only provoking more hatred throughout the world. So come back to the table, let’s talk and look for solutions in a peaceful way,” he added.
The pope also condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure, describing them as violations of international law and a reflection of growing hatred and division.
He called on citizens across affected countries to pressure political leaders to pursue peace.
“I would invite the citizens of all the countries involved to contact authorities and political leaders to ask them to work for peace and to reject war always,” he said, while urging protection for vulnerable groups including children, the elderly, and the sick.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has ordered a two-week ceasefire in the conflict, suspending planned US military strikes after talks with Pakistani leaders.
Trump said the pause in hostilities is aimed at allowing room for negotiations toward a long-term peace agreement, raising hopes for a possible de-escalation of tensions in the region.