VATICAN: Pope Leo, the leader of Catholics worldwide, expressed deep concern over the recent military tensions between Iran and Israel during his speech at St. Peter’s Church.
He urged officials from both sides to pursue dialogue and rationality to resolve the ongoing crisis.
Having been in his papacy for nearly five weeks, Pope Leo emphasized the sensitivity of the current situation, stating, “In such moments, I strongly urge us to turn once again to responsibility and reason.”
He underscored that the commitment to building a safer world free from nuclear threats should be pursued through respectful interactions and honest dialogue, aiming for sustainable peace based on justice, brotherhood, and the common good.
The Pope remarked, “No one should consider the existence of another as a threat,” and added that it is the duty of all nations to support peace, initiate reconciliation, and find solutions to ensure security and human dignity.
The statements came as airstrikes between Iran and Israel began early Friday and continued into the morning of Sunday.
Both sides have targeted each other’s positions, resulting in casualties and financial losses, with the conflict ongoing.
