Pope Leo XIV has strongly criticised U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to destroy Iranian civilisation, describing the remarks as “truly unacceptable” while urging political leaders to reject war and pursue peaceful solutions.
The pope made the comments while leaving his country residence in Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome, in what has become one of his strongest statements regarding the ongoing tensions involving Iran.
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Leo was referring to Trump’s warning that an entire civilisation could die if Iran failed to meet a deadline for negotiations, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
“Today as we all know there was this threat against all the people of Iran. This is truly unacceptable,” the pope said.
The pontiff used the moment to renew his appeal for peace, repeating a message he first made during his Easter address.
He warned that the ongoing conflict is escalating without solving anything, adding that wars often lead to more suffering rather than solutions.
Pope Leo urged Americans and people of goodwill around the world to contact their political leaders and congressional representatives.
According to him, citizens should remind leaders that attacks on civilian infrastructure are illegal under international law and only deepen hatred and division.
He said the global community must push leaders to return to dialogue and peaceful negotiations.
The pope also highlighted the growing instability around the world, noting that economic struggles, energy shortages, and Middle East tensions are already affecting many countries.
“We have a worldwide economic crisis, an energy crisis and a situation in the Middle East of great instability,” he said.
Leo stressed that political leaders must remember the innocent victims of war, including children, the elderly, and the sick.
He called on leaders to return to the negotiating table and seek peaceful solutions before more lives are lost.
The Vatican is also worried that the conflict could spread further into Lebanon, where fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group has intensified.
Church officials fear for the safety of Christian communities in southern Lebanon, which have historically played an important role in the region.
Earlier, the Vatican released a special message of solidarity to residents of Debel, Lebanon, after a humanitarian aid convoy carrying more than 40 tons of supplies was unable to reach the area due to security concerns.
In the message, the pope encouraged local Christians and reminded them that their suffering is not forgotten by the global church.
