Pope Leo XIV urges an Easter end to the US-Israel war on Iran
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Pope Leo XIV expressed hope that the U.S.-Israel war on Iran could end before Easter, urging President Trump to seek an "off-ramp" to reduce violence and hatred in the Middle East.
- The pope called on world leaders to return to dialogue and work toward peace, emphasizing the significance of Holy Week as a time for reflection and peace amid ongoing global conflicts.
- Leo criticized the use of religion to justify war, noting that prayers do not favor those who promote violence, and specifically prayed for Christians suffering in the Middle East.
- During Holy Week, the pope will participate in traditional ceremonies including the Holy Thursday foot-washing, the Good Friday procession at the Colosseum, the Easter Vigil baptisms, and Easter Sunday Mass and blessing at St. Peter’s Square.
