VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV has engaged in diplomatic exchanges with international leaders urging a return to dialogue to address the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the Vatican said on Friday.
The pontiff, who has repeatedly called for de-escalation in the Middle East, held talks with diplomats and conveyed messages emphasizing the need for negotiated solutions amid persistent tensions, Vatican officials confirmed. The exchanges focused on promoting peace through responsible dialogue rather than continued violence.
Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S.-born pope, has voiced concern over the conflict's impact on civilians and regional stability in public statements throughout the year. His latest efforts come as reports of ongoing hostilities and humanitarian challenges continue in the region.
"Stability and peace are not built through mutual threats, nor with weapons that sow destruction, pain, and death, but only through reasonable, authentic, and responsible dialogue," the pope said in an earlier appeal that reflected the tone of recent diplomatic communications.
The Holy See has maintained active diplomatic channels with parties involved, including efforts to support humanitarian initiatives and encourage ceasefires. Pope Leo has met with ambassadors and participated in discussions aimed at fostering conditions for negotiations.
Background on the conflict includes escalations that began earlier in the year, leading to significant disruptions and displacements. The Vatican has consistently advocated for adherence to international humanitarian law and the protection of civilian populations.
In recent months, Pope Leo has described the situation as increasingly serious and called on all sides to prioritize talks. His interventions have included public addresses and private diplomatic outreach, aligning with the Catholic Church's long-standing position on promoting peace.
Church officials noted that the pope's engagement builds on previous Vatican initiatives in similar regional crises. Details of specific recent exchanges with Iranian or U.S. representatives remain limited, with the Vatican describing them as part of routine diplomatic efforts.
As of Friday, the Vatican reported no immediate breakthroughs from the latest exchanges but reaffirmed the pope's commitment to supporting all avenues for peace. Further updates on the diplomatic process are expected in coming days as monitoring of the situation continues.
