Pope Leo Warns Iran Conflict Could Escalate, Urges End to Violence

Pope Leo XIV, head of the Catholic Church, expressed deep concern on Sunday over the escalating conflict involving Iran, warning that the violence could spread across the Middle East and calling for an immediate halt to hostilities.

Speaking during the Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff said reports from Iran and the region remain “disturbing” as fighting entered its ninth day following the U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian targets.

“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,” Pope Leo said, according to Reuters.

He urged urgent efforts to stop the violence and open channels for 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.

The remarks come amid growing international alarm over the military campaign by the United States and Israel. Earlier in the week, the Vatican’s top diplomat criticised the strikes, warning that such actions undermine international law and stressing that no country has the right to launch “preventive wars.”