Pope Leo called for “reason” amid the recent airstrikes between Israel and Iran, urging both nations to engage in dialogue. The attacks, which resulted in numerous casualties and forced civilians to seek shelter, have raised serious concerns.

Speaking at St. Peter’s Basilica, the pope expressed deep worry over the escalating tensions. “At this critical time, I earnestly appeal for responsibility and reason,” he said. He emphasized the importance of pursuing a safer world free from nuclear threats through respectful dialogue and genuine efforts to build lasting peace based on justice, fraternity, and the common good.

He added, “No country should ever threaten another’s existence. It is the responsibility of all nations to champion peace by fostering reconciliation and supporting solutions that ensure security and dignity for everyone.”

Pope Leo, who was elected on May 8 as the first U.S.-born pontiff succeeding the late Pope Francis, typically delivers carefully prepared statements rather than speaking spontaneously. On Saturday, he read his appeal in Italian from a written text.

The recent conflict began when Israel launched a major strike on Iran early Friday, targeting military leaders, installations, and nuclear sites in what it described as a “preemptive” move to stop Iran’s nuclear weapons ambitions. Iran, which denies any nuclear weapons development, responded by firing multiple missile attacks on Israel, resulting in casualties and injuries.