Pontiff calls for continued diplomacy after ceasefire announcement and urges global prayer during fragile negotiations.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday expressed support for a newly announced ceasefire in the Iran conflict, while reiterating criticism of earlier remarks by Donald Trump that warned of severe consequences for Iran.
Speaking during his weekly audience, the pope said he welcomed the agreement to pause hostilities, describing it as a step toward easing tensions in a region that has experienced weeks of escalating conflict.
“In light of these past hours of great tension for the Middle East and for the whole world, I welcome with satisfaction… the announcement of an immediate two-week truce,” Leo said.
He emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic engagement, stating, “Only through a return to negotiation can an end to the war be achieved.”
The remarks came hours after Leo had publicly criticized Trump’s warning that Iran could face catastrophic destruction if it failed to meet U.S. demands related to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The pope described that threat as “truly unacceptable” when speaking to journalists.
In a message shared on X, the pope expanded on his call for restraint and dialogue. In the post, he wrote, “I urge everyone to accompany this moment of delicate diplomacy with prayer, in hopes that a willingness to dialogue may become the means to resolve other conflict situations in the world as well.”
Leo, the first American pope and leader of approximately 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, has increasingly spoken out about the conflict in recent weeks. His statements reflect a broader appeal for de-escalation as international leaders assess whether the ceasefire can lead to a longer-term resolution.
The Vatican’s response marks a rare instance of the pontiff directly addressing remarks made by a sitting U.S. president, underscoring the significance of the conflict and its potential global implications.
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