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Pope Leo XIV Urges Halt to Escalating U.S.–Israel–Iran Conflict

His appeal follows U.S.-Israeli strikes that killed Ayatollah Khamenei, triggering Iranian retaliation.

Overview

  • Speaking at the Angelus, the American-born pope warned of a “tragedy of enormous proportions” and insisted peace comes through “reasonable, authentic, responsible dialogue,” not weapons.
  • The U.S. and Israel carried out “Operation Epic Fury” targeting sites in Tehran and other cities, with President Trump defending the operation and declaring Khamenei dead.
  • Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it struck Israeli facilities and bases hosting U.S. troops as regional spillover expanded, with Gulf states reporting interceptions and explosions.
  • Reports pointed to casualties on multiple sides, including at least three U.S. service members and large numbers in Iran, with figures varying as hostilities continued.
  • International calls for de‑escalation intensified, as the EU held an emergency meeting, the U.N. chief warned of wider war, Russia and China condemned Khamenei’s killing, and Iranian officials signaled a swift succession process.