As tensions in the Middle East show signs of easing, Pope Leo XIV has welcomed a newly reached agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it will strengthen peace and stability throughout the region.
Speaking during his weekly General Audience on Wednesday, the Holy Father reflected on the diplomatic breakthrough that is expected to be formally signed on Friday. According to Vatican News, the agreement follows nearly four months of conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
“I welcome with satisfaction the reaching of an agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, which will be signed on Friday, as an encouraging result of patient work of dialogue and negotiation,” Pope Leo said.
The Pope also expressed gratitude to the nations that helped facilitate the negotiations, highlighting the importance of diplomacy in resolving international conflicts.
“I hope that this agreement may help strengthen mutual trust, security and stability in the Middle East, promoting paths of dialogue and cooperation among peoples,” he added, according to Vatican News.
The conflict began after the United States and Israel launched airstrikes against Iran on February 28, targeting the country’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Iran responded with counter-strikes against Israel and American military installations and allies in the Gulf region, while also disrupting shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
While welcoming progress toward peace in the Middle East, Pope Leo also turned attention to the ongoing war in Ukraine, where violence continues to claim lives and destroy communities.
According to Vatican News, the Pope lamented the increasing number of casualties as Russian attacks intensify, particularly against Ukrainian cities.
“There are many innocent victims, rescuers killed, churches, and places of cultural heritage devastated by flames,” he said.
The Holy Father offered his spiritual closeness to those suffering from the war’s consequences.
“I am close to all those who mourn their loved ones, to the wounded, and to those who, amid violence, continue courageously to serve life,” Pope Leo said.
He concluded his appeal by asking Catholics and all people of goodwill to pray for an end to the conflict.
“I invite everyone to pray that this war may end,” he said. “Let us ask the Lord to open paths of dialogue, to extinguish hatred, and to make a just and lasting peace possible.”
The Pope’s remarks underscored the Church’s continued call for peace through dialogue, reconciliation, and respect for human dignity amid some of the world’s most pressing conflicts.
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