Pope Leo Calls for End to War in Middle East

Pope Leo issued an urgent plea for peace during his Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, calling for an immediate end to bombings and the start of diplomatic dialogue to prevent a wider regional war.

Expressing deep concern over escalating violence in Iran and the broader Middle East, the Pope warned that the conflict is fueling a dangerous cycle of fear and hatred.

"This violence risks destabilizing the entire region," he cautioned. He noted a growing anxiety that the unrest could spread to neighboring countries, specifically mentioning his concern for the stability of Lebanon.

The Pope urged world leaders and all parties involved to silence their weapons and prioritize the voices of the people. “Let us pray humbly that the bombs may stop and an environment for dialogue may be created,” he said.

This appeal follows sharp criticism from the Vatican’s top diplomat, who questioned the legality of recent military operations. The diplomat stated that "preventive war" undermines international law and urged a return to established global norms.