Vatican City: Amid the intensifying conflict between Iran and Israel, Pope Leo XIV has called on both nations to exercise restraint and turn away from the path of war. Speaking on Saturday during an address for the Jubilee of Sport in St. Peter’s Basilica, the Pope issued a heartfelt plea for “responsibility and reason” as the region teeters on the edge of a wider crisis.

“With grave concern, I follow the disturbing developments between Iran and Israel,” the Pope said. “In these difficult times, I renew my strong appeal to the leaders involved: let reason prevail over retaliation. No one has the right to threaten the existence of another.”

The Holy Father emphasized the urgent need for peaceful solutions and condemned the growing specter of nuclear conflict. “Now more than ever, humanity must strive for a world free from the dangers of nuclear weapons. This can only be achieved through respectful dialogue, mutual understanding, and sincere efforts to build a peace rooted in justice, fraternity, and the common good.”

Pope Leo underscored that peace is not a passive wish but a shared responsibility. “All nations are called to be builders of peace—by fostering reconciliation, promoting dignity, and ensuring safety for all communities.”

His remarks come in the wake of a dramatic military exchange between Israel and Iran. After Israeli airstrikes targeted Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure on Friday, Tehran launched a barrage of retaliatory missile strikes. Reports indicate at least three fatalities and dozens wounded in Israel, while Iran suffered 78 deaths and over 320 injuries.

In light of this alarming escalation, the Pope's voice stands as a moral call to global leaders to choose the path of dialogue over destruction, and unity over conflict. His appeal echoes the Church’s enduring commitment to peace, human dignity, and the urgent avoidance of nuclear catastrophe.