Pope Leo XIV Calls for Just Peace Amid US-Iran Conflict in Talks with Israel and Ukraine

During a solemn Good Friday observance, Pope Leo XIV spoke by phone with the presidents of Israel and Ukraine. He renewed his urgent plea for a just and lasting peace as the US-led military action in Iran enters its second month. The pontiff expressed deep concern over escalating violence and the recent downing of two US combat aircraft. He urged reopening all diplomatic channels and called on world leaders to find an off-ramp that would reduce bombing. He also criticized the use of religion to justify war, declaring that “God does not listen to the prayers of those who wage violence.” His comments have underscored a rare theological rift with senior US defense officials. At the Colosseum’s Way of the Cross, he linked modern suffering to the Passion of Christ. With Easter approaching, he hopes his “disarmed diplomacy” can pave the way for a temporary truce.

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