Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace Amid Escalation in the Middle East

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, Pope Leo XIV called on the international community to reject the threat of nuclear conflict and focus its efforts on achieving lasting peace. His appeal was delivered at the conclusion of a jubilee general audience at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, Vatican News reports.

The Holy Father expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in Iran and Israel:

“In recent days, we have received news that causes serious concern. The situation in Iran and Israel has escalated significantly. At this delicate moment, I once again appeal for responsibility and prudence.”

Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the pursuit of peace is impossible without dialogue and mutual respect:

“Efforts to build a safer world free of nuclear threat must be rooted in encounters, mutual respect, and sincere dialogue for a lasting peace founded on justice, fraternity, and the common good.”

He also reminded that no country has the right to threaten the existence of others:

“It is the duty of all nations to uphold peace by initiating paths of reconciliation and promoting solutions that ensure safety and dignity for all.”

Earlier it was reported that on June 17, 2025, the head of the OCU, Epiphanius Dumenko, received the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Moldova to Ukraine, Valeriu Kiver, at his residence. Together with members of the Moldovan diplomatic mission, Dumenko discussed “challenges related to the activities of the Moscow Patriarchate” in both countries.