Pope Leo XIV has appealed for an immediate ceasefire
in the escalating Middle East conflict as Israel and Iran continue exchanging
attacks across the region.
Speaking on Sunday, March 15, after the traditional
Angelus prayer at Vatican City, the pontiff urged leaders involved in the
conflict to halt hostilities and seek peace.
“On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East and
all women and men of goodwill, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict:
cease fire,” the Pope said during his address.
The pontiff, who is the first American to lead the
Catholic Church, noted that people across the region have endured severe
suffering since the conflict erupted about two weeks ago.
According to him, the ongoing violence has led to the
deaths of thousands of innocent civilians, while many others have been forced
to flee their homes to escape the fighting.
“I once again offer my prayers to all those who have
lost loved ones in the attacks that have struck schools, hospitals and
residential areas,” he said.
The Pope stressed that violence cannot bring lasting
solutions, adding that war will not deliver the justice, stability or peace
that the people of the region desperately need.
He called on all parties involved to prioritize
dialogue and work toward ending the conflict to prevent further humanitarian
suffering.
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