Pope appeals for end to Middle East conflict as Iran prepares new leader

Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate end to escalating violence in the Middle East during his Angelus prayer, expressing deep concern about the conflict ignited by US-Israeli air strikes on Iran. The conflict enters its ninth day with Iran reportedly preparing to unveil a new supreme leader following the strikes that damaged fuel storage facilities in Tehran. Iran has responded with missile and drone strikes targeting Gulf states including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. The pope warned the persistent violence risks spreading further instability to Lebanon and other regional countries. He urged a return to diplomacy, praying "the roar of bombs may cease" and "weapons fall silent." Meanwhile, US President Trump has not ruled out deploying ground troops to Iran despite claiming the military campaign is progressing swiftly.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/03/08/iran-roar-of-bombs-in-middle-east-will-end-pope-leo/