Pope Leo XIV has expressed his readiness to serve as a mediator in international conflicts, emphasizing his commitment to global peace during an address at the Vatican.
The newly installed head of the Catholic Church, who took office last week following the death of Pope Francis, called for dialogue among warring nations and pledged to support any effort that could help bring an end to violence.
Addressing members of the Eastern Catholic Churches at the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, the pontiff highlighted ongoing crises in regions such as the Holy Land, Ukraine, Lebanon, Syria, Tigray, and the Caucasus. He underscored the human suffering caused by these conflicts and the urgent need for peacebuilding efforts.
The pope urged Christians in conflict-affected areas, particularly the Middle East, to remain in their homelands. He stressed the importance of preserving Christian communities in these regions and affirmed the Vatican’s willingness to assist in fostering peace through dialogue and negotiation.
His message was part of a broader appeal made during a gathering ahead of the 2025 Jubilee holy year, which will center on the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches with followers across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa. Pope Leo also acknowledged the contributions of individuals working towards peace and called on global leaders to engage in meaningful conversations aimed at resolving conflicts.
Pope Leo XIV assumed leadership of the 1.4 billion-member Catholic Church after the passing of his predecessor, Pope Francis, on April 21 at the age of 88. Peace advocacy has emerged as a recurring theme in his recent public addresses.
