Pope Leo XIV Appeals for De-escalation in Iran and Highlights Women’s Rights
Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, March 8, 2026, issued a plea for de-escalation in the escalating conflict involving Iran, expressing deep concern over the violence and potential for wider regional instability. Speaking after the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope also marked International Women’s Day by reaffirming the importance of equal dignity and condemning violence against women.
Growing Concerns Over Middle East Conflict
Addressing approximately fifteen thousand pilgrims, Pope Leo voiced his dismay at “news continues to arrive from Iran and throughout the Middle East that causes deep consternation.” He specifically highlighted the “violence and devastation” and the “widespread climate of hatred and fear” gripping the region. Vatican News reported the Pope’s concerns.
The Pope expressed particular worry that the conflict could spread, potentially destabilizing neighboring countries like Lebanon. He urged a cessation of hostilities, stating, “Let us humbly ask the Lord to stop the bombs exploding, to silence the guns and to open a space for dialogue where the voice of the peoples can be heard.” He entrusted this appeal to Mary, Queen of Peace, praying for those suffering from the war and for guidance towards reconciliation and hope.
Call for Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution
This plea follows a previous expression of “deep concern” regarding the situation in the Middle East and Iran made by Pope Leo XIV the previous Sunday. He emphasized that “Stability and peace are not built with mutual threats, nor with weapons, which sow destruction, pain and death, but only through a reasonable, authentic, and responsible dialogue.” EWTN News detailed the Pope’s earlier statement.
The Pope warned against the dangers of escalating violence, stating that it could lead to an “immense tragedy.” He reiterated the need for diplomacy to “regain its proper role” and for the prioritization of the “well-being of peoples, who yearn for peaceful existence founded on justice.”
International Women’s Day Message
Pope Leo XIV also used the occasion of International Women’s Day to advocate for the equal dignity of men and women. He acknowledged the discrimination and violence that many women continue to face, “especially to them I dedicate my solidarity and prayer.” LaPresse reported on this aspect of the Pope’s address.
Ongoing Global Concerns
In addition to the situation in Iran and the Middle East, Pope Leo XIV also expressed concern for conflicts in other regions, including Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling for an urgent return to dialogue. He also offered prayers for victims of severe flooding in Brazil’s state of Minas Gerais. ABC News provided coverage of the Pope’s broader concerns.
The Pope’s appeals for peace and dialogue underscore the Vatican’s ongoing commitment to resolving conflicts through peaceful means and promoting human dignity worldwide.