Pope Leo XIV has called on world leaders to embrace peace as ongoing tensions in the Middle East cast a shadow over this year’s Easter celebrations.
Delivering his Easter message at St. Peter’s Basilica, the pontiff urged nations to turn away from violence and instead pursue dialogue and reconciliation.
His address comes amid heightened conflict and humanitarian concerns across parts of the Middle East.
In his message, the Pope emphasized that war continues to bring immense suffering, displacing families and destroying communities.
He called on those in positions of power to “choose peace,” stressing that true strength lies not in weapons, but in compassion and understanding.
He also warned against the growing normalization of violence, urging the global community not to become indifferent to the pain of those affected by conflict.
According to him, Easter should serve as a reminder of hope, renewal, and the triumph of peace over hostility.
The Catholic leader further cautioned against using religion as a justification for violence, insisting that faith should unite people rather than divide them.
The traditional “Urbi et Orbi” blessing drew thousands of worshippers and millions of viewers worldwide, reinforcing the Vatican’s continued call for an end to global conflicts particularly in the Middle East.
