The head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, on Sunday expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict involving Iran, warning that the violence could spread further across the Middle East and urging an immediate halt to hostilities.
Speaking during the traditional Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff said disturbing reports continued to emerge from Iran and the wider region as fighting entered its ninth day following the United States–Israeli assault on Iranian targets.
The Pope cautioned that the ongoing conflict was fuelling fear and hatred and risked drawing in more countries, including Lebanon, which he said could once again face instability
He called for urgent efforts to end the violence and open channels for peaceful dialogue.