Pope Praises US-Iran Agreement, Calls for Russia-Ukraine Dialogue

Pope Leo XIV today praised the announcement by Iran and the United States of an agreement to end the war in the Middle East, calling it the 'fruit of encouraging efforts in dialogue and negotiation.'

According to AFP, the agreement between Washington and Tehran this week to end the conflict prompted the Pope to express his 'gratitude' to those who facilitated the negotiations.

Speaking during his weekly public audience at the Vatican, the 70-year-old Pope said, 'I hope this agreement will help strengthen mutual trust, security, and stability in the Middle East by promoting dialogue and cooperation among peoples.'

He also addressed the 'painful' news regarding the war in Ukraine, praying for 'the path of dialogue... to achieve a just and lasting peace.'

Russia's invasion of Ukraine has become one of the bloodiest conflicts in Europe since World War II, lasting longer than World War I.

The Pope said, 'So many innocent civilians and rescuers have lost their lives, and churches and cultural heritage have been tragically destroyed by fire.'

He added, 'I stand with those mourning their loved ones, the injured, and those who continue to bravely serve life amid violence.' (Compiled by: Liu Shuqin) 1150617