VATICAN CITY — After praying the Angelus on March 15, Pope Leo XIV again appealed to those responsible for the escalating conflict in the Middle East to cease fire and to reopen dialogue that leads to a lasting peace.
On Feb. 28, the U.S. and Israel launched a series of strikes against Iran with the aim of targeting its nuclear and ballistic missile program and pushing for regime change. Iran responded with multiple strikes against Israeli, U.S. and U.K. military bases and other locations in the region.
Meanwhile, Israel intensified strikes against Lebanon in its effort to target the paramilitary group, Hezbollah, forcing hundreds of thousands of people from their homes.
After praying the Angelus with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV said, “For two weeks now, the people of the Middle East have been suffering the horrific violence of war. Thousands of innocent people have been killed, and countless others have been forced to flee their homes. I renew my prayerful closeness to all who have lost loved ones in the attacks, which have struck schools, hospitals and residential areas.
“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 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! May paths of dialogue be reopened! Violence can never lead to the justice, stability and peace for which the people are waiting.”
The following day, March 16, the Vatican press office sent reporters a communiqué saying Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had called the pope about the “alarming developments” in the Middle East and about the living conditions of Palestinians.
The pope reaffirmed the Vatican’s commitment to achieving peace through dialogue and full respect for international law.
