Pope Leo XIV Prays for Weapons to “Fall Silent” in Iran

Photo Credit: Reuters                                                                                                                 Story Credit: Vatican News

At the Angelus on Sunday, 8 March 2026, Pope Leo XIV called on the thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for peace in the Middle East, urging that weapons and bombs “fall silent” and be rendered harmless.

The Holy Father appealed for grievances to be addressed through dialogue and negotiation rather than violence, stressing the need for leaders to listen to their people and pursue peaceful solutions.

Reflecting on the situation in the region, the Pope expressed concern that recent developments in the Middle East are discouraging and do not promote efforts toward peace. He warned that the continued violence and destruction could have devastating consequences in Iran and across the wider region.

The Pontiff also cautioned that if the conflict is not contained, it could escalate and affect neighbouring countries such as Lebanon, potentially plunging them once again into instability. He therefore urged all parties involved to embrace dialogue and pursue peaceful coexistence for the common good.

Entrusting the situation to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whom he invoked as the Queen of Peace, the Pope prayed for reconciliation and renewed hope for those who have suffered as a result of the conflict.

The Holy Father reiterated a message he delivered during the previous Sunday’s Angelus, emphasizing that “stability and peace are not built with mutual threats, nor with weapons which sow destruction, pain, and death, but only through reasonable, authentic, and responsible dialogue.”

Calling on diplomacy to play a renewed and active role, Pope Leo XIV urged all parties to choose peace. He encouraged the faithful around the world to continue praying for harmony and stability in the region.

Anita Aryeh
DEPSOCOM, Accra