Pope Leo welcomes US-Iran deal, urges strengthened Middle East stability

Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday welcomed the recently announced agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would enhance security and stability across the Middle East. “I hope that this agreement will contribute to strengthening mutual trust, security, and stability in the Middle East, and promote paths of dialogue and cooperation among the peoples,” the pontiff said on X. He also welcomed “with satisfaction” the agreement as an “encouraging outcome of patient work in dialogue and negotiation.”

Gratitude to mediators

The pope expressed gratitude to the countries that have strived to foster dialogue and make the understanding possible. Washington and Tehran reached a temporary truce in April through Pakistani mediation before announcing a framework agreement on Monday to end the conflict. The accord is expected to be formally signed in Switzerland on Friday. Pope Leo has previously raised concerns about the Iran war and its humanitarian impact, particularly on civilians in Gaza and Lebanon. His endorsement of the deal adds moral weight to the diplomatic breakthrough.