Pope Leo XIV calls Lebanon ceasefire ‘cause for hope’ as Iran talks loom

ANGOLA: Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, April 19, described the recent ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon as a “cause for hope,” while urging renewed diplomatic efforts to secure lasting peace across the Middle East. 

Speaking at the conclusion of a Mass attended by more than 100,000 people in Angola, the pontiff emphasized the importance of dialogue over continued conflict.

His remarks come amid ongoing discussions about a potential ceasefire involving Iran. He also addressed broader global tensions, including the situation in Ukraine.

Pope calls Lebanon ceasefire ‘glimmer of relief’ 

Pope Leo pointed to the ceasefire in Lebanon as a rare positive development in an otherwise volatile region.

“The ceasefire in Lebanon, announced earlier this week, was cause for hope,” he said, framing the agreement as a step toward reducing hostilities.

He highlighted the immediate impact of the truce on affected populations. “It represents a glimmer of relief for the Lebanese people and for the Levant,” Leo said during the Mass in Angola as part of his Africa tour.

The pontiff stressed that temporary pauses in fighting should lead to sustained diplomatic engagement.

“I encourage those who are working toward a diplomatic solution to continue peace talks, so that the cessation of hostilities throughout the Middle East may become permanent,” he said.

Leo reiterated that his message extends beyond a single conflict, calling for a broader commitment to dialogue across the region.

He also referenced ongoing violence elsewhere, stating he was “deeply saddened by the recent escalation of attacks against Ukraine,” and again urged “for weapons to fall silent and for the path of dialogue to be pursued.”

Vance ‘grateful’ as pope seeks to ease tensions with WH

Vice President JD Vance on Saturday, April 18, said he was “grateful” for Pope Leo’s recent remarks, which he described as helping to reduce tensions with the White House following criticism related to the Iran conflict.

Speaking to reporters while traveling from Cameroon to Angola, Pope Leo clarified that his comments were not intended as a direct challenge to US President Donald Trump.

“It was looked at as if I was trying to debate, again, the president, which is not in my interest at all,” he said.

Vance responded publicly, writing, “I am grateful to Pope Leo for saying this,” and added, “While the media narrative constantly gins up conflict–and yes, real disagreements have happened and will happen–the reality is often much more complicated.”

He said the pope’s role in articulating moral guidance and the administration’s role in policymaking may at times diverge. “Pope Leo preaches the gospel, as he should… The President–and the entire administration–work to apply those moral principles in a messy world,” he said.