Vatican City — As tensions in the Middle East enter its fourth week, Pope Leo XIV has once again called for peace.
In a statement on Sunday, March 22, the Pope expressed deep concern over the continuing violence in the region, saying he is troubled by the destruction caused by the war.
“With dismay I continue to follow the situation in the Middle East, which like other regions of the world is torn apart by war and violence. We cannot remain silent in the face of the suffering of so many defenseless people who are victims of these conflicts. What hurts them hurts all of humanity,” the pontiff expressed.
He described the deaths and suffering as a scandal to humanity, and urged people to continue praying for an end to the fighting and for peaceful solutions.
“The death and pain caused by these wars is a scandal for the entire human family and a cry that rises to God! I strongly renew my appeal to persevere in prayer, so that hostilities may cease and paths to peace may finally open up, based on sincere dialogue and respect for the dignity of every human person,” the Pope appealed.
The Pope had already made a similar appeal on March 15, calling for a ceasefire and stressing that violence can never bring lasting peace.
His renewed call comes as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate.
On Saturday, March 21 (US time), Unites States President Donald Trump warned Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours or face possible U.S. strikes on Iran’s power plants.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a key flashpoint in the conflict.
Iran previously moved to shut down the waterway, disrupting global oil supply and pushing prices higher worldwide.
While Iran has since eased restrictions, it continues to block access to the United States and its allies.
In response to Trump’s ultimatum, Iranian officials said they are ready to retaliate.
They warned the strait could be completely closed if Iran’s energy infrastructure is attacked, and added that oil and energy facilities across the region — particularly in countries hosting U.S. bases — could become targets.
“The Strait of Hormuz will be completely closed and will not be opened until our destroyed power plants are rebuilt,” Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps said.
Meanwhile, the human toll continues to rise.
According to the Institute for National Security Studies, 1,500 people in Iran have been killed since U.S. and Israeli airstrikes began on February 28.