Pope Leo XIV expressed hope that U.S. President Donald Trump is looking for a way to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and reduce the levels of violence.
Speaking to reporters as he departed his residence in Castel Gandolfo for the Vatican, the Pope said he had received signals that Trump intends to bring the conflict to a close.
“I hope he is seeking a way out, a path to reduce violence and bombings,” the Pope said, emphasizing that such efforts would make a significant contribution to easing the growing hatred in the Middle East and beyond.
The head of the Catholic Church called on all world leaders to return to dialogue and seek solutions to conflicts.
“Let us return to dialogue and find solutions to these problems,” the Pope stated, noting that the world is facing immense suffering and loss of life, including innocent children.
Ahead of Easter, which he will celebrate for the first time as Pope, Leo XIV stressed that this period should be a time of peace and deep reflection. Unfortunately, he noted, violence and war continue to dominate many parts of the world.
