Pope Leo has called for an immediate end to violence and urged renewed efforts to open space for dialogue amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

Speaking during the Angelus prayer at Saint Peter’s Square, the pontiff said he was receiving deeply troubling news from Iran and across the region. He warned that the ongoing conflict is spreading fear and hatred and could escalate further, potentially drawing other countries, including Lebanon, into the crisis.

Pope Leo appealed for peace, saying, “Let us raise our humble prayer to the Lord that the roar of bombs may cease, that weapons may fall silent, and that space may be opened for dialogue where the voices of peoples can be heard.