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Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, March 8, called for an end to the escalating violence in the Middle East, praying that the “roar of bombs” would cease as the war triggered by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran entered its ninth day.
Speaking after the Angelus prayer, the US-born pontiff said the developments in the region continue to cause deep concern and sorrow.
He said the ongoing violence, destruction, and rising climate of hatred and fear are increasing worries that the conflict could expand and draw in more countries.
The pope warned that the crisis could also threaten the stability of neighboring nations, including Lebanon, which he described as a beloved country that risks once again falling into instability.
His appeal came as tensions across the region remain high. Iran is preparing to announce a new supreme leader following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei after US-Israeli air strikes targeted facilities in and around Tehran.
The attacks destroyed fuel depots and sparked fires that covered large parts of the Iranian capital in thick smoke.
Iran has since responded with missile and drone attacks targeting several countries across the Gulf and other parts of the Middle East.
US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of sending American ground troops into Iran but has insisted the military campaign is progressing quickly.
Pope Leo XIV urged all sides to pursue peace, saying he hopes the sound of weapons will fall silent and that dialogue will replace the violence.
“I pray that the roar of the bombs may cease, that weapons may fall silent, and that space for dialogue may open so the voices of the people can be heard,” he said.