Pope Leo XIV Calls for End to War and Dialogue

Pope Leo XIV has appealed to Catholic believers worldwide to end conflicts and start a dialogue. "Let the terrible noise caused by bombs and weapons stop," he stressed, while expressing concern about the potential expansion of the conflict in the Middle East and Lebanon.

The Pope prayed for those suffering from the war, hoping for reconciliation and peace. The Assembly of Catholic Bishops of Italy has designated March 13 as a day of prayer and fasting for peace, responding to the appeal of Pope Leo.

Organizations of the Roman Catholic Church in Italy are planning anti-war mobilizations in major cities. Bishop Giovanni Ricchiuti, president of Pax Christi Italia, stated that "rulers must finally open their eyes and realize that wars do not resolve disputes."