Pope Leo XIV Demands Immediate Ceasefire in Iran War, Citing School Attack Casualties

• Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East, directly addressing leaders responsible for the war in Iran.
• He emphasized that violence cannot lead to justice, stability, or peace, urging for avenues of dialogue to reopen.
• The Pope cited a missile strike on an Iranian elementary school that killed over 165 people, including many children.
• Vatican officials, including Cardinals Robert McElroy, Blase Cupich, and Pietro Parolin, have also voiced strong criticism against the war.
• Concerns were raised for Christian communities in southern Lebanon and the escalating humanitarian crisis in the region.