Pope Leo XIV has called U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to “destroy Iranian civilization” completely unacceptable, warning that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law.
Speaking as he left his country residence in Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome, the pope urged people of good will, especially Americans, to contact their political leaders and congressional representatives to reject war and pursue peaceful solutions.
“Today, as we all know, there was this threat against all the people of Iran. This is truly unacceptable,” Leo said, referencing Trump’s warning that a “whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran failed to meet his latest demands regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
Leo recalled his Easter appeal for peace, calling on world leaders to avoid wars that escalate conflict without resolving underlying issues. He stressed that attacks on civilians reflect “the hatred, the division, the destruction human beings are capable of,” and urged everyone to advocate for diplomacy and dialogue.
In recent weeks, the U.S.-born pope has taken a firmer stance against the conflict in Iran, moving from general appeals for peace to directly challenging the actions of global powers. Although he did not name Trump in his latest remarks, he explicitly called for political leaders to “come back to the table” and seek peaceful solutions.
“The world faces an economic crisis, an energy crisis, and instability in the Middle East, which only provokes more hatred,” Leo said. He highlighted the plight of innocent children, the elderly, and the sick who are at risk in ongoing conflicts.
The Vatican has also expressed concern over the renewed hostilities in Lebanon between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah, emphasizing the vulnerability of Christians in southern Lebanon. Earlier on Tuesday, the Vatican released a message from Leo to residents of Debel, Lebanon, offering solidarity after a 40-ton aid convoy was blocked for “security reasons.”
“In your misfortune, in the injustice you endure, in the feeling of abandonment you experience, you are very close to Jesus,” the message read. “This Easter Day, when He conquered the forces of evil, resonates for you as a promise of the future.”
Leo visited Lebanon late last year on his first international trip as pope, highlighting his commitment to the region and its communities.
