Pope Leo XIV Urges End to Violence in Iran
The Pontiff calls for renewed diplomatic dialogue and regional stability.
VATICAN: Pope Leo XIV has appealed for peace in Iran and the wider Middle East, urging an end to violence and calling for dialogue among the parties involved.
Speaking during the Sunday Angelus prayer on March 8, 2026, in St Peter’s Square, the Pope addressed about 15,000 pilgrims gathered at the Vatican, expressing deep concern over reports of destruction, hostility, and fear affecting communities across the region.
He warned that the ongoing conflict could destabilise neighbouring countries, particularly Lebanon, which he said risks falling again into instability if the situation continues to deteriorate.
Pope Leo XIV called on the faithful to pray for an immediate end to the fighting, expressing hope that the sounds of bombs will cease and weapons will fall silent, creating space for dialogue in which the voices of ordinary people can be heard.
The Pope also entrusted the situation to the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, asking her to intercede for those suffering because of war and to guide hearts and nations toward reconciliation and hope.
The appeal follows concerns he raised during the previous Sunday’s Angelus, where he emphasised that lasting peace cannot be built through threats or weapons, which bring destruction and suffering, but only through sincere and responsible dialogue.
He cautioned that if violence continues to escalate, the region could face a tragedy of enormous proportions, urging leaders involved to assume moral responsibility and act to stop the spiral of violence.
Pope Leo XIV concluded by encouraging diplomatic efforts to take the lead in resolving the crisis and invited the faithful to continue praying for peace and justice among nations.
