Pope Leo XIV welcomed the announcement of a two-week ceasefire in the Middle East during his Wednesday General Audience, describing it as “a sign of deep hope” after weeks of escalating conflict. Addressing the faithful in St. Peter’s Square, he stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained dialogue, urging all parties to return to the negotiating table and reject further violence. He also called on believers to support peace efforts through prayer and moral responsibility.
Earlier, the Pope had firmly rebuffed Donald Trump’s call for an “end to civilization” approach, warning that such rhetoric contradicts Christian values and undermines genuine peacebuilding. Leo XIV emphasized that conflicts must be resolved through diplomacy, mutual respect, and the protection of human dignity, not threats or escalation.
He invited the faithful to join a Prayer Vigil for Peace at St. Peter’s Basilica, underscoring the spiritual dimension of reconciliation. While the ceasefire does not yet extend to all areas affected by the conflict, the Vatican expressed hope it could become a foundation for a broader and lasting peace.