By: Sunday Ameh
Pope Leo XIV has called for urgent dialogue and restraint amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Hosseini Khamenei, during coordinated air strikes by the United States and Israel.
In a statement released Sunday via his official X account, the pontiff expressed deep concern over the growing crisis, warning that peace cannot be achieved through violence or military confrontation.
“I am following with deep concern what is happening in the Middle East and in Iran during this tumultuous time,” the Pope said, urging all parties to embrace “reasonable, sincere, and responsible dialogue” to prevent further escalation.
He cautioned that continued hostilities could lead to “a tragedy of immense proportions,” stressing the moral responsibility of global actors to halt the spiral of violence before it becomes irreversible.
According to the Vatican statement, the Pope emphasised that threats and weapons only bring “destruction, suffering, and death,” calling for diplomacy to regain its central role in resolving international conflicts.
He also appealed for the protection of civilians and the promotion of justice-based peace, noting that people across the region yearn for stability and security.
Confirmed
Earlier on Sunday, Iranian state media confirmed that Khamenei was killed during joint US-Israeli strikes targeting key government locations in Tehran.
The announcement marked a dramatic shift from earlier reports by semi-official Iranian outlets, including Tasnim and Mehr news agencies, which had initially denied claims of the leader’s death.
State television later confirmed that the 86-year-old leader died at his office during the attacks, which began in the early hours of Saturday, plunging the Islamic Republic into one of the most uncertain periods in its modern history.
Authorities subsequently declared a 40-day national mourning period in honour of Khamenei, who had ruled Iran since 1989.
US President Donald Trump earlier announced the development on his Truth Social platform, stating that American intelligence capabilities, working in coordination with Israel, ensured the success of the operation.
He described the killing as a potential turning point for Iran’s political future, suggesting it could open the door to internal transformation within the country.
Rising Regional Tensions
The strikes have significantly heightened fears of retaliation and broader regional conflict, with global leaders increasingly calling for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo XIV urged believers worldwide to continue praying for peace.
“And let us continue to pray for peace,” he said.
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