Pope Leo has called for an immediate ceasefire in the expanding Iran war, warning that the ongoing conflict has caused immense suffering and loss of innocent lives across the Middle East.
Speaking during his weekly Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, the Pope lamented what he described as the “atrocious violence” of war, noting that thousands of non-combatants have been killed and many more displaced as the conflict enters its third week.
“For two weeks, the peoples of the Middle East have been suffering the atrocious violence of war,” the Pope said, urging those responsible for the conflict to immediately halt the fighting.
“In the name of Christians in the Middle East and of all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict: Cease fire!” he said.
Pope Leo said the war had resulted in the deaths of thousands of innocent people while forcing many families to flee their homes, adding that he stood in solidarity with those who had lost loved ones in the attacks.
The pontiff also warned that continued violence would not bring justice, stability or lasting peace to the region, and urged leaders involved in the conflict to pursue dialogue and peaceful solutions. (Newswire)
