Pope Appeals for Responsibility and Reason Amid Iran-Israel Escalation

Vatican City, 15 June, 2025: Pope Leo XIV has issued a heartfelt plea to the leaders of Iran and Israel, urging them to step back from the brink of war and commit to dialogue for the common good, as military tensions between the two nations escalate.

Addressing pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Basilica during an Audience for the Jubilee of Sport on Saturday, the Pope voiced deep concern over the deteriorating situation. “No one should ever threaten another’s existence,” he declared, calling for “responsibility and reason” at a time of heightened conflict.

“In these days, news continues to arrive that causes great concern,” he said. “The situation in Iran and Israel has seriously deteriorated, and at such a delicate moment, I wish to strongly renew an appeal to responsibility and reason.”

Pope Leo reaffirmed the urgent need to work towards a world free from the nuclear threat. He emphasised that this goal must be pursued through “respectful encounters and sincere dialogue,” laying the foundation for lasting peace rooted in justice, fraternity, and the common good.

He went on to stress the responsibility of the international community in this crisis. “It is the duty of all countries to support the cause of peace by initiating paths of reconciliation and promoting solutions that guarantee security and dignity for all,” he concluded.

The Pope’s appeal follows a sharp escalation in violence between Iran and Israel. On Friday, Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and military bases. In swift retaliation, Iran fired waves of missiles into Israeli territory. Reports confirm at least three fatalities and dozens injured in Israel, while in Iran, 78 people were killed and more than 320 wounded.

Courtesy: Vatican News