Pope Leo calls for ceasefire in Middle East, special prayers for Lebanon

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Marking the two weeks since the U.S. and Israel launched their first attacks on Iran and since the Israeli military resumed strikes in Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire.

“On behalf of the Christians of the Middle East, and of all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict: cease fire!” he said March 15.

“May paths of dialogue be reopened! Violence can never lead to the justice, stability and peace for which the people are waiting,” he said after praying the Angelus with people gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

“For two weeks now, the people of the Middle East have been suffering the horrific violence of war,” the pope said. “Thousands of innocent people have been killed, and countless others have been forced to flee their homes. I renew my prayerful closeness to all who have lost loved ones in the attacks, which have struck schools, hospitals and residential areas.”

“The situation in Lebanon is a cause for great concern,” he added. “I hope that avenues for dialogue will emerge to support the country’s authorities in implementing lasting solutions to the serious crisis currently unfolding, for the common good of all the Lebanese people.”

Read More Conflict in the Middle East

‘Lay down your weapons,” pope says in Palm Sunday call for peace

Jerusalem Church leaders decry escalating war, urge peace efforts amid ‘deep darkness’

Israel to allow Church leaders to celebrate Holy Week, Easter at holy sites, Latin patriarchate says

Residents turn to resistance in faith as settler violence terrorizes West Bank Christian village

Jerusalem patriarchate cancels Palm Sunday procession, postpones chrism Mass amid war

Eastern Catholic bishops issue ‘cry for peace and justice’ as global conflicts rage

Copyright © 2026 Catholic News Service/U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

 Print