Pope Leo XIV The threat against the entire Iranian people is unacceptable
Addressing journalists in Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV wearing white vestments, appeals to all individuals of goodwill to continually seek peace and to oppose war. He urges a return to diplomatic negotiations in pursuit of peaceful resolutions and highlights that attacks on civilian infrastructure are in violation of international law.
“Search always for peace and reject war.”
Pope Leo XIV reiterated his call for peace in a brief statement on Tuesday evening to a group of journalists awaiting him outside Villa Barberini, the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo.
Amidst the context of the ongoing tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, and following the US President’s statement on Tuesday night regarding the potential for severe action, including the destruction of Iranian infrastructure, should Tehran fail to meet the deadline imposed by the White House to reach an agreement concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Pope expressed his desire to reiterate, once again, the message conveyed in his Urbi et Orbi message address on Sunday. He called on all people of good will to continually seek peace and to oppose violence. He emphasised the importance of rejecting war—particularly a conflict that many have deemed unjust, which continues to escalate and fails to bring about any resolution.
Speaking in Italian, he stated, “Today, as we are all aware, there has also been this threat directed against the entire population of Iran. This is entirely unacceptable. While there are undoubtedly matters of international law involved, it is, above all, a moral issue concerning the well-being of the people as a whole.
The Pope highlighted the extensive repercussions of the conflict and stated, “We are facing a global economic crisis, an energy crisis, and a highly unstable situation in the Middle East, which is further exacerbating tensions and hostility worldwide.
Therefore, Pope Leo respectfully appealed, saying, “Please return to the discussion table. Let us converse and seek peaceful solutions.”
The Pope also took the opportunity to recognise all those who are enduring unjust harm during this conflict.
“Let’s remember, especially, the innocent: children, the elderly, the sick, so many people who have already become, or will become, victims of this continued warfare—and to remind all that attacks on civilian infrastructure are against international law, and that they are also a sign of the hatred, division, and destruction that the human being is capable of.”
The Pope reiterated that “we all want to work for peace. People want peace,” as he called on all people to do their part.
Pope Leo concluded by encouraging citizens of all participating countries to reach out to their respective authorities—political leaders and members of parliament—to request their support, communicate the importance of peace, and advocate against war and violence. He expressed his sincere gratitude.