Pope Leo calls for peace in the Middle East

• Pope Leo calls for renewed diplomatic efforts to end conflict across the Middle East.
• He describes the Lebanon ceasefire as a “cause for hope” during remarks in Angola.

Pope Leo has renewed his appeal for peace in the Middle East, urging leaders involved in ongoing conflicts to pursue lasting diplomatic solutions, according to remarks delivered during a mass in Angola as part of his Africa tour.

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The pontiff emphasized that recent developments in Lebanon offered a rare positive sign amid wider regional instability.

“It represents a glimmer of relief for the Lebanese people and for the Levant,” Pope Leo said.

Lebanon ceasefire welcomed as step forward

Referring to the recently announced ceasefire in Lebanon, Pope Leo described it as a meaningful development for the region.

“The ceasefire in Lebanon, announced earlier this week, was cause for hope,” he said.

He stressed that such pauses in fighting should not remain temporary, but instead lead to broader political solutions.

Call for lasting end to hostilities

Pope Leo urged continued diplomatic engagement, calling on all parties and mediators to push forward peace negotiations across the region.

“I encourage those who are working toward a diplomatic solution to continue peace talks, so that the cessation of hostilities throughout the Middle East may become permanent,” he said.