Pope Leo XIV brands Middle East war a 'scandal to humanity' as conflict enters fourth week
VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, March 22, condemned the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, describing it as a “scandal to the entire human family.” Speaking during his weekly Angelus prayer at St Peter’s Square, the pontiff expressed concern over the growing humanitarian toll of the conflict.
His remarks came as the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran entered its fourth week. The Pope also reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire and renewed his emphasis on dialogue.
Pope Leo XIV voices dismay over global conflicts
Addressing crowds gathered at St Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV said he continues to follow developments in the Middle East and other conflict zones with “dismay.”
He described the suffering caused by the ongoing violence as a matter that affects humanity as a whole.
“We cannot remain silent in the face of the suffering of so many people, innocent victims of these conflicts,” he said. Emphasizing the shared human cost, he added, “What hurts them hurts the whole of humanity.”
The Pope characterized the war as a “scandal to the entire human family and a cry before God,” underscoring the moral weight of the crisis.
He encouraged continued prayer and appealed for a halt to violence, stating: “I strongly renew my appeal for us to persevere in prayer, so that hostilities may cease and the way may finally be paved for peace.”
He also urged that “paths of peace, based on sincere dialogue and respect for the dignity of every human being, may finally open.”
The Pope’s comments came amid increasing casualties across the region as the conflict intensified. In recent days, he has escalated his appeals for peace, maintaining a consistent call for restraint and humanitarian consideration.
Vatican appeals target Donald Trump and global leaders
Alongside the Pope’s remarks, senior Vatican officials also issued direct appeals regarding the conflict. Pietro Parolin, a key advisor to Pope Leo XIV, called for an immediate end to the war and urged restraint from global leaders.
“I would say to finish it as soon as possible ... and to leave Lebanon alone,” Parolin said, in comments directed toward Donald Trump and other leaders. “This message goes also to the Israelis,” he added during remarks at an event at the Italian parliament.
Parolin also expressed concern about the risk of further escalation, warning that the conflict could expand if not addressed through diplomatic means. He called on world leaders “to resolve problems ... through the peaceful ways of diplomacy and dialogue.”
Both the Pope and senior officials have continued to emphasize the need for a ceasefire, dialogue, and humanitarian considerations as central to any resolution.
