Pope Leo XIV requested a ceasefire in the Middle East

Pope Leo XIV issued a strong call for a ceasefire in the Middle East, addressing the leaders involved in the conflict in Iran. He emphasized that violence cannot bring justice, stability, or peace and referred to the attacks on schools, including a devastating attack that killed over 165 people, mostly children. Although he did not explicitly name the United States or Israel, the Pope expressed solidarity with the victims' families and highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. In the last two weeks, the Pope has adopted a more reserved tone, avoiding political positioning, but some American cardinals have taken a firmer stance, criticizing the war and the rhetoric of the American administration. Cardinal Robert McElroy stated that the war is morally unjustifiable, and Cardinal Pietro Parolin reaffirmed the Vatican's commitment to dialogue, emphasizing that the Holy See communicates with all parties involved in the conflict.