Pope Leo Urges Ceasefire in Middle East, Cites Iran School Strike

Pope Leo Calls for Immediate Ceasefire

Pope Leo delivers a powerful plea for peace in the Middle East, demanding an immediate ceasefire amid escalating violence. In a message shared on X following his Sunday noon blessing, he appeals directly to conflict leaders: “On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East, and of all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict: ceasefire! May paths of dialogue be reopened! Violence can never lead to the justice, stability and peace for which the peoples are waiting.”

References to Devastating Attacks

The Pope highlights recent strikes, including one on an elementary school in Iran during the war’s early days that claimed over 165 lives, many children. He es solidarity with families affected by assaults on schools, hospitals, and residential areas. Officials note growing concerns over Lebanon’s humanitarian crisis, where aid organizations warn of severe impacts.

Prior Message on Regional Instability

Last week, Pope Leo voiced deep dismay over the Middle East conflict, particularly in Iran, cautioning against wider regional turmoil. In another social media post, he states: “reports #Iran and across the entire Middle East continue to cause deep dismay and raise the fear that the conflict will expand, and that other countries in the region, including dear Lebanon, may once again sink into instability. Let us pray together for the roar of bombs to cease, weapons to fall silent, and space to open for dialogue, in which people’s voices may be heard.”

This comes as ground operations intensify in Lebanon, with the Israel Defense Forces conducting targeted strikes on military sites in Tehran and Beirut.