Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East on March 15, following two weeks of violence after the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran and the Israeli military resumed strikes in Lebanon.
The pope’s appeal comes as thousands have been killed and many more displaced by ongoing hostilities. His statement highlights concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict and urges leaders to seek peaceful solutions.
“On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East, and of all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict: cease fire!” Pope Leo said after praying the Angelus with crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square. He continued, “May paths of dialogue be reopened! Violence can never lead to the justice, stability and peace for which the people are waiting.”
Pope Leo described how “for two weeks now, the people of the Middle East have been suffering the horrific violence of war,” noting that “thousands of innocent people have been killed, and countless others have been forced to flee their homes.” He expressed his closeness to those who lost loved ones in attacks affecting schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
Addressing Lebanon specifically, Pope Leo said, “The situation in Lebanon is a cause for great concern. I hope that avenues for dialogue will emerge to support the country’s authorities in implementing lasting solutions to the serious crisis currently unfolding, for the common good of all the Lebanese people.”
On March 16, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas spoke with Pope Leo about “alarming developments in the conflict in the Middle East and the living conditions of the Palestinian people,” according to a communique from the Vatican press office. The press office stated: “During the conversation, the Holy Father reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to achieving peace through political and diplomatic dialogue, as well as through full respect for international law.”
