The head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, has expressed deep concern over the escalating war involving Iran, warning that the conflict could spread across the Middle East if urgent action is not taken.
Speaking during the Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Sunday, the pontiff described reports from the region as disturbing as the conflict entered its ninth day following U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.
Pope Calls for Immediate End to Violence
Pope Leo warned that the continued fighting could destabilize more countries in the region, including Lebanon.
“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,” the pontiff said.
He called for an immediate halt to hostilities and urged world leaders to pursue peaceful dialogue.
“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.
Vatican Raises Alarm Over Military Strikes
The Pope’s remarks come amid increasing global concern about the military campaign involving the United States and Israel against Iranian targets.
Earlier in the week, the Holy City also criticised the strikes. The Vatican’s chief diplomat warned that such actions undermine international law and stressed that no country has the right to launch what he described as “preventive wars.”
World leaders and religious authorities have continued to call for restraint as fears grow that the conflict could expand into a broader regional war.
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