Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has welcomed the agreement reached between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it will help bring greater peace, stability, and cooperation to the Middle East. Speaking during his weekly General Audience on Wednesday, Pope praised the diplomatic efforts that led to the breakthrough and encouraged both countries to continue on the path of dialogue.
The agreement, which is expected to be formally signed on Friday, comes after nearly four months of conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Pope Leo described the development as a positive outcome achieved through patience, negotiation, and a commitment to peaceful engagement.
“I welcome with satisfaction the reaching of an agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, which will be signed on Friday, as an encouraging result of patient work of dialogue and negotiation,” Pope said.
He also expressed gratitude to the countries and international partners that played a role in facilitating discussions and helping the two sides move toward an understanding.
Pope said he hopes the agreement will contribute to stronger trust between nations in the region and create new opportunities for cooperation. According to him, lasting peace can only be achieved when countries choose dialogue over confrontation and work together to address common challenges.
The conflict began on February 28 when the United States and Israel launched air strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile facilities. The attacks triggered a series of retaliatory actions from Iran, including strikes against Israel as well as American military bases and allies in the Gulf region. Tensions also affected international shipping routes, particularly through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about regional security and global energy supplies.
The agreement between Washington and Tehran is being viewed by many observers as a significant diplomatic step that could help reduce tensions after months of military confrontation and uncertainty. While details of the memorandum have not yet been fully disclosed, expectations are high that it could open the door to further negotiations and confidence building measures.
Alongside his remarks on the Middle East, Pope Leo also turned attention to the ongoing war in Ukraine, expressing deep concern over the increasing human cost of the conflict.
He spoke about the growing number of civilian casualties as Russia intensifies attacks across Ukraine, particularly in urban areas. Pope noted that innocent people continue to lose their lives, while emergency workers and rescuers face danger as they respond to attacks.
“There are many innocent victims, rescuers killed, churches, and places of cultural heritage devastated by flames,” he said.
Pope extended his sympathy to families grieving the loss of loved ones and to those who have been injured during the conflict. He also praised those who continue to provide humanitarian assistance and support despite the difficult and dangerous conditions.
“I am close to all those who mourn their loved ones, to the wounded, and to those who, amid violence, continue courageously to serve life,” he said.
Pope Leo renewed his call for prayers for peace and urged the international community not to lose hope in efforts to end the war. He appealed for renewed dialogue and understanding, saying that lasting peace requires both courage and a willingness to overcome hatred.
“I invite everyone to pray that this war may end,” Pope said. “Let us ask the Lord to open paths of dialogue, to extinguish hatred, and to make a just and lasting peace possible.”
Pope’s comments reflected the Vatican’s continued emphasis on diplomacy, reconciliation, and peaceful solutions to international conflicts. As tensions in the Middle East show signs of easing through negotiation and the war in Ukraine continues to claim lives, Pope Leo’s message focused on the importance of dialogue, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to peace.
His appeal comes at a time when the international community is closely watching both developments, hoping that diplomatic progress in one region may serve as a reminder of the value of negotiation in resolving conflicts around the world.