Pope Leo XIV on Sunday called for an immediate end to the escalating violence in the Middle East, praying that the “roar of bombs” would cease as the conflict triggered by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran entered its ninth day.
The pontiff warned that the crisis could further destabilise neighbouring countries, including Lebanon, which he described as a beloved nation at risk of once again falling into instability.
His appeal came amid rising tensions across the region following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, after US-Israeli air strikes targeted facilities in and around Tehran.
The attacks reportedly destroyed fuel depots and triggered large fires that blanketed parts of the Iranian capital in thick smoke. Iran has since responded with missile and drone strikes targeting several countries across the Gulf and other parts of the region.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of deploying American ground troops to Iran but said the ongoing military campaign is advancing rapidly.
Speaking after the weekly Angelus prayer, Pope Leo XIV urged all parties involved to choose dialogue over violence.
“I pray that the roar of the bombs may cease, that weapons may fall silent, and that space for dialogue may open so the voices of the people can be heard,” he said.
The US-born pontiff added that the escalating violence, destruction and growing climate of hatred and fear are deeply troubling and raise concerns that the conflict could expand further and draw more nations into the crisis.
