Pope Leo urges dialogue amid Middle East war
Pope Leo urged dialogue and an end to the violence in the Middle East as tensions escalate in the region.
Pope Leo urged dialogue and an end to the violence in the Middle East as tensions escalate in the region.

![Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Pope Leo XIV wave to journalists during their meeting in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, on December 9, 2025 [Andrew Medichini/AP Photo]](/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/AP25343351344279-1765318944.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)






Pope Leo XIV says the world must not forget the journalists who are shedding light on ‘land bloodied by bombs’.
Pontiff expected to appeal for peace in Middle East and address the region’s Muslims and Christians.
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Pope Leo XIV has called on Israel to end the ‘terror, destruction and death’ in Gaza.
Southern Europe struggles with soaring heat as temperatures hit 40C, sparking fears of wildfires and health risks.
Catholic pontiff says international rules have been ‘replaced by the presumed right to overpower others’.
Ties with China remain sensitive within the Catholic Church over a 2018 deal between the Holy See and Beijing.
Locals in Chiclayo, Peru, have fond memories of Leo’s work as bishop, but some question his record responding to abuse.