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VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Leo XIV expressed optimism that the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran could conclude before Easter, urging dialogue among
world leaders during remarks made to reporters at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, on Tuesday. The U.S.-born pontiff referenced recent statements from President Trump, expressing hope that the president is actively seeking a resolution to reduce violence in the region, which he believes is crucial for fostering peace.
Call for Reduction of Violence
Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of decreasing violence and military actions in the Middle East. He stated that such efforts would significantly contribute to alleviating the growing animosity in the region.“Hopefully he’s looking for a way to decrease the amount of violence, of bombing, which would be a significant contribution to removing the hatred that’s being created, that’s increasing constantly in the Middle East and elsewhere,” Leo remarked.
Plea for Peace During Holy Week
During Holy Week, a sacred time for Christians, the pope called on all world leaders to return to dialogue to foster peace, particularly as Easter approaches. He expressed concern over the suffering and deaths, especially among innocent children, caused by ongoing conflicts.“It should be the holiest time of the year. It is a time of peace, a time of reflection. But as we all know, again, in the world, in many places we are seeing so much suffering, so many deaths, even innocent children,” he stated.
Religious Justifications for War
Pope Leo XIV highlighted how various leaders have used religious narratives to justify their military actions. He noted that U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have cited their Christian faith in framing the conflict as a struggle of a Christian nation against its adversaries.Additionally, he pointed out that the Russian Orthodox Church has characterized its invasion of Ukraine as a ‘holy war’ against what it perceives as a morally declining Western world.
Upcoming Holy Week Ceremonies
As Holy Week progresses, Pope Leo XIV is set to participate in traditional ceremonies, including the Holy Thursday foot-washing ritual at St. John Lateran Basilica and the Good Friday procession at the Colosseum, where he will carry the cross.On Saturday night, he will conduct the Easter Vigil, during which he will baptize new Catholics, followed by the Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square, where he will deliver his Easter blessing.
