Pope Calls for Peace After U.S. Strikes on Iran Nuclear Sites

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, has called for peace and diplomacy amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly following U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. In his June 22 Angelus address, he condemned the ongoing violence involving Iran, Israel, and Palestine, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza and other affected territories. The pope stressed that war deepens wounds and that the international community has a moral responsibility to prevent the conflict from becoming an "irreparable abyss." His remarks came shortly after President Donald Trump announced successful U.S. military strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, warning Iran to pursue peace or face greater future attacks. Pope Leo criticized the rhetoric that incites conflict and urged nations to prioritize diplomacy over violence to protect human dignity. His call for peace aligns with international appeals for renewed negotiations, including recent talks in Geneva involving Iran and European powers.