Pope Leo Condemns Middle East War: We Cannot Stand Silently in the Face of So Much Suffering

(Patria) - Pope Leo XIV today called the death and destruction from the war in the Middle East a "scandal for the entire human family," once again calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

As the US-Israeli war against Iran enters its fourth week, the first Catholic Church leader from the USA said he is following the situation in the Middle East and other regions affected by conflict and violence with "dismay".

"We cannot stand silently in the face of the suffering of so many people, helpless victims of these conflicts. What hurts them hurts all of humanity," Leo said during the Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square.

He reiterated his call for the faithful to persevere in prayer so that hostilities may cease and "the path to peace may finally be opened."