Pope Leo XIV has called on the United States and Iran to continue peace talks aimed at ending the war, emphasizing that the conflict has left behind "an entire population in Iran with innocent people suffering."
His remarks come after a public clash with U.S. President Donald Trump, who issued a lengthy critical response to the Pope.
"I would encourage the continuation of dialogue for peace, that all parties make every effort to promote peace, to remove the threat of war, and to respect international law," the Pope declared during a flight to Rome, following a visit to four African countries.
He stressed that, as a spiritual leader, he cannot support war and that it is necessary to seek solutions rooted in a culture of peace, not hatred and division.
Pope Leo XIV also shared a touching story, revealing that he carries with him a photograph of a Muslim child from Lebanon, who during his visit last year held a sign reading "Welcome Pope Leo."
"In this latest phase of the war, he was killed," the Pope said, using this example to underscore the tragic consequences of the conflict on civilians.