Pope Leo XIV on Sunday expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, praying that the “roar of bombs may cease” as the US–Israeli air strikes on Iran enter their ninth day.
At the Angelus prayer, the US-born pontiff highlighted the “episodes of violence and devastation” and the fear that the conflict could spread to other countries, including Lebanon. He called for a “space for dialogue” to allow the voices of affected peoples to be heard.
The prayers come as Iran prepares to announce its new supreme leader, following air strikes that destroyed fuel depots and filled Tehran with thick smoke, while Iranian missile and drone retaliation has targeted multiple Gulf nations. US President Donald Trump has refused to rule out sending ground troops into Iran but maintains that the conflict is progressing quickly.
