Castel Gandolfo: Pope Leo XIV has appealed for peace in regions torn by conflict, urging world leaders to return to dialogue and diplomacy instead of allowing war to deepen human suffering. Speaking after the Angelus prayer at Piazza della Libertà in Castel Gandolfo on Sunday, Pope said the growing violence in the Middle East, Ukraine and other parts of the world continues to claim innocent lives and must not be allowed to destroy hope for peace.
Addressing pilgrims gathered outside the Apostolic Palace during his first Sunday at the papal summer residence, Pope Leo reflected on the increasing number of conflicts affecting people across the globe. He said civilians continue to pay the highest price in wars, with violence bringing fear, destruction and death to communities.
Pope expressed particular concern about the renewed tensions in the Middle East following the collapse of hopes for a diplomatic agreement between the United States and Iran. He also referred to the continuing crisis in Lebanon, where instability has added to the hardships faced by many people in the region.
Turning to Europe, Pope Leo spoke about the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. He mentioned the recent heavy attacks on the Ukrainian cities of Kharkiv, Dnipro, Kyiv and Odesa, saying that the latest escalation has caused further suffering and uncertainty for civilians already living through years of conflict.
He warned that the world is once again witnessing the spread of violence in several regions.
Pope said the winds of war are blowing again in the Middle East, Ukraine and many other parts of the world, bringing violence, terror and death while affecting countless innocent people.
Despite the worsening situation, Pope Leo encouraged people not to lose hope. He said peace may sometimes appear fragile, but it should never be abandoned. He called on nations to remain committed to dialogue, meetings and diplomacy, describing them as the only path capable of achieving a just and lasting peace.
According to Pope, lasting peace can only be built when people live together in reconciliation, mutual security and respect for the dignity of every human being. He urged governments and international leaders to continue seeking peaceful solutions instead of allowing conflicts to grow.
Pope also marked Sea Sunday, observed by the Catholic Church on the second Sunday of July. The annual event is dedicated to praying for seafarers, fishermen and port workers whose work supports global trade and the daily lives of millions of people around the world.
Recognising the difficult conditions faced by those who work at sea, Pope Leo noted that many spend long periods away from their families while also dealing with growing security concerns because of conflicts affecting international waters.
He thanked sailors, fishermen and port workers for their quiet and dedicated service, saying their work keeps trade moving and supports communities across the world despite the many challenges they face.
Pope's message highlighted the importance of remembering those whose work often goes unnoticed but remains essential to the global economy. Around 90 percent of world trade is transported by sea, making the contribution of maritime workers vital to international commerce.
At the end of his address, Pope Leo remembered the traditional Marian pilgrimage in Poland to the Shrine of Jasna Góra in Częstochowa, one of the country's most important religious sites. Every year, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims travel there to honour the famous icon of Our Lady of Częstochowa, also known as the Black Madonna.
Pope offered his prayers for the many Polish faithful taking part in the annual pilgrimage. He expressed hope that they would continue to be joyful witnesses of the Gospel and carry their faith into their communities as missionary disciples.
Pope Leo's Angelus message combined concern for people living through war with encouragement to remain hopeful. His appeal stressed that even in times of growing international tensions, peace can only be achieved through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for human dignity. He also used the occasion to recognise the often overlooked contribution of maritime workers and to encourage pilgrims gathered in Poland to continue living out their faith with courage and joy.