Tuesday, March 31, 2026-Pope Leo XIV has called for a swift end to the ongoing U.S.‑Israel war on Iran, urging leaders to seek peace and dialogue as Easter approaches.
Speaking to reporters outside his retreat in Castel Gandolfo, the pope expressed hope that the conflict could be finished before the holy celebration, emphasizing the need to reduce violence and suffering across the region.
He also noted that President Trump has expressed a desire to end the war and urged him to find an “off‑ramp” from continued fighting.
The pontiff’s appeal comes amid Holy Week, the most sacred period in the Christian calendar, and he urged world leaders to return to diplomatic engagement to halt bombardments and bloodshed.
Leo stressed that Easter should be a time of peace and reflection, lamenting the deaths of civilians — including children — and the spreading hatred fueled by ongoing war.
In previous remarks during Palm Sunday Mass, the pope decried the use of religion to justify violence, insisting that war cannot be sanctified in the name of faith.
His comments reflect growing concern within the Vatican over the humanitarian toll of the conflict and a push for peaceful resolution before the Easter celebration.
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