Pope Leo XIV received a telephone call on March 16, 2026, from Mahmoud Abbas, president of the State of Palestine, as violence continues to escalate across the Middle East. The conversation focused on what the Vatican described as “worrying developments” in the conflict and the difficult conditions facing the Palestinian people.
During the call, the Holy Father renewed the commitment of the Holy See to work for peace through political and diplomatic dialogue and full respect for international law. He stressed the need to protect civilians and safeguard sacred places and communities of faith amid the violence.
The situation intensified since February 28, when the United States and Israel launched strikes on military and nuclear targets in Iran, where authorities reported at least 1,200 deaths. The conflict has also spread to Lebanon, where Israeli attacks against positions of Hezbollah have left around 800 people dead, while Israel has begun a limited ground operation against the group.
Abbas had also previously spoken with the pope about the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and rising violence in the West Bank. On that occasion, the Holy Father renewed his call to revive negotiations, reach a ceasefire, and protect worship sites and all people in the Holy Land.
Entrusting the region to God’s mercy, the pope again urged dialogue and reconciliation, reminding the world that true peace grows where justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity prevail.