Pope Leo XIV appealed for an end to hostilities in the Middle East during his Sunday Angelus prayer on March 22, as the U.S. and Israel-Iran war entered its fourth week amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The pope’s call comes at a time of significant suffering in the region, with many people affected by ongoing violence. He urged continued prayer so that “hostilities may cease and paths of peace may finally open up, based on sincere dialogue and respect for the dignity of every human person.”
Pope Leo said he is following “with dismay” the situation in the Middle East, noting that it is one of several regions worldwide torn apart by war and violence. He added, “We cannot remain silent in the face of the suffering of so many people — defenseless victims of these conflicts.” He emphasized that what harms them affects all humanity: “The death and pain caused by these wars are a scandal for the entire human family, and a cry that rises to God.”
With Holy Week approaching, Pope Leo invited believers to move beyond materialism and selfishness to embrace eternal life through faith. He encouraged them to relive events such as “the Lord’s Passion — the entry into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, the trial, the crucifixion, [and] burial,” so they might understand their deeper meaning.
Reflecting on spiritual emptiness in modern society, Pope Leo said Christ’s grace illuminates a world searching for novelty at great cost: “as if fame, material goods, entertainment and fleeting relationships could fill our hearts or make us immortal.” Quoting St. Augustine’s Confessions he said: “Nothing finite can quench our inner thirst… we find no peace until we rest in him.” The pope concluded by encouraging people to break free from habits or thinking patterns that lead to confusion or loneliness.
Before closing his remarks with greetings to athletes running in Rome’s marathon, Pope Leo expressed hope that sport would help pave paths toward peace and social inclusion.
