Pope Leo XIV delivered a strong appeal for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict involving Iran during his Sunday noon blessing at the Vatican. He urged all leaders responsible for the fighting to halt violence and reopen dialogue after recent deadly strikes that hit schools and civilian areas.
Call for Ceasefire Following Deadly School Strike
The pope addressed the war’s tragic impact, notably referencing a strike early in the conflict that killed more than 165 people, many of them children, at a school in Iran. Although he did not name the United States or Israel explicitly, the remarks came amid reports that the attack may have resulted from outdated intelligence, prompting an investigation by U.S. officials.
Pope Leo spoke on behalf of Christians in the Middle East and others of goodwill, emphasizing that violence cannot achieve the justice, stability, and peace sought by the affected populations. He expressed deep solidarity with the families of victims and concern over the broader humanitarian consequences, including the escalating tension in Lebanon.
Vatican’s Neutral Stance and Broader Church Responses
The Vatican has maintained diplomatic neutrality, avoiding direct references to specific countries involved in the war while encouraging dialogue. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, rejected U.S. descriptions of the conflict as a “preventive war” but affirmed ongoing communication with all parties involved.
Some Catholic leaders have taken more direct positions. Cardinal Robert McElroy called the war morally unjustifiable, and Cardinal Blase Cupich criticized the U.S. White House for promoting the war with social media content resembling video game imagery.
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