Only Peace Can Prevent Middle East War: Pope Leo

In a powerful call for peace amid escalating military conflict between Iran and Israel, Pope Leo XIV on Saturday appealed to both nations to choose dialogue and responsibility over war.

Addressing a congregation at St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope expressed “great concern” over the rapidly deteriorating situation in the Middle East. The pontiff, just five weeks into his papacy, made one of his strongest public appeals yet, urging leaders of both Iran and Israel to “act with reason” and pursue peaceful solutions.

“The commitment to building a safer world free from the nuclear threat must be pursued through respectful encounters and sincere dialogue,” Pope Leo said, reading carefully from a prepared Italian text.

He added, “No one should ever threaten the existence of another. All countries must support the cause of peace, initiating paths of reconciliation and promoting solutions that guarantee security and dignity for all.”

Elected on May 8 following the death of Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV is the first pontiff from the United States. Known for his measured and deliberate speech, Leo differs from his predecessor by strictly adhering to scripted messages. Still, his words carried significant moral weight amid global fears of a broader regional war.

The Pope’s remarks come after Israel launched a preemptive strike against Iran on Friday, targeting military command centers and nuclear infrastructure. The Israeli military claims the operation was necessary to prevent Tehran from completing a nuclear weapons program.

In response, Iran retaliated with waves of missile attacks, resulting in at least two deaths and dozens of injuries in Israeli cities.

While Iran maintains its uranium enrichment is for peaceful purposes, the exchange has sparked international alarm, raising fears of a wider conflict that could destabilize the Middle East and beyond.

The Pope’s message reinforces a chorus of global voices—including Pakistan, the United Nations, and the European Union—calling for de-escalation, diplomacy, and respect for international norms.

“This is a delicate moment,” Leo emphasized. “Only justice, fraternity, and the common good can lead to lasting peace.”