Pope Leo Calls for Immediate Ceasefire Among US, Israel and Iran

Vatican City: Pope Leo has urged United States, Israel, and Iran to immediately stop the ongoing war in the Middle East and pursue dialogue to end the conflict.

Speaking after Sunday prayers in Vatican City, the pontiff said he was appealing on behalf of Christians and people across the region to those responsible for the escalation to bring the fighting to an end.

Pope Leo said that people in the region have been suffering the devastating consequences of the conflict for the past two weeks. He noted that thousands of people have been killed and many families have been forced to flee their homes.

He also offered prayers for those who lost loved ones in attacks that reportedly targeted schools, hospitals, and residential areas.

“Violence can never establish justice, stability, or peace,” he said, urging all sides to open the path for negotiations instead of continuing the war.

The pope also expressed concern over the situation in Lebanon, saying the country is facing a very difficult situation and expressing hope that diplomatic dialogue will help the Lebanese government achieve lasting peace and stability.

Meanwhile, hostilities between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other continue, with both sides reportedly targeting military installations and strategic positions in the region. Officials say the conflict began with strikes on Iran on February 28, and the fighting has continued into its second week, causing significant casualties and displacement.