Pope Leo XIV issued a passionate plea for peace during his Sunday Angelus prayer, urging global diplomatic efforts amid escalating Middle East tensions following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

Condemning war’s human toll, the pope stressed that “no armed victory can compensate for the pain of mothers” and called for diplomacy over violence.

He also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, warning it risks being forgotten. Iran has vowed retaliation, with Foreign Minister Araghchi warning of “everlasting consequences,” the Daily Star has reported.

Meanwhile, Trump praised the military and invoked God after the strike, reigniting controversy over his strained relationship with the Vatican.

Written by B.C. Begley