Pope Leo Urges End to Violence in Iran, Appeals for Dialogue and Peace

Vatican City, March 9, 2026: Pope Leo XIV has called for an immediate halt to violence in Iran and across the Middle East, urging that “the roar of bombs might cease” and that weapons fall silent to allow space for dialogue.

Speaking to around 15,000 pilgrims gathered in St Peter’s Square after the Sunday Angelus, the Pope expressed deep sorrow over reports of “violence and devastation” and a spreading “climate of hatred and fear” in Iran and the wider region. He warned that the conflict risks destabilising neighbouring countries, including “beloved Lebanon”.

The Holy Father invited the faithful to pray that channels of communication may open and that “the voice of the peoples may be heard”. Entrusting his appeal to Mary, Queen of Peace, he sought her intercession for those suffering because of war and asked that hearts be guided along paths of reconciliation and hope.

Reaffirming concerns he voiced the previous week, Pope Leo stressed that genuine stability cannot be achieved through threats or armed force. “Stability and peace are not built with mutual threats, nor with weapons, which sow destruction, pain, and death, but only through a reasonable, authentic, and responsible dialogue,” he said.

He cautioned that an escalation of violence could lead to a tragedy of immense proportions. Addressing the parties involved, he made a heartfelt appeal for moral responsibility to halt the spiral of violence before it descends into “an irreparable abyss”.

The Pope concluded by urging diplomacy to regain its central role in resolving the crisis. He called on nations to prioritise the good of their peoples, who long for peaceful coexistence founded on justice, and encouraged continued prayer for peace.

Pope Leo Urges End to Violence in Iran, Appeals for Dialogue and Peace

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