Pope Leo urges Donald Trump to end war on Iran

Pope Leo called on U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday to seek a way to stop the war in Iran, marking a rare direct request from the pope as the conflict escalates in the region. “I’ve heard President Trump recently express a desire to end the war,” said Leo, who is the first pope from the United States. “I hope he is looking for a way out,” the pope remarked to reporters outside his home in Castel Gandolfo, close to Rome. “I hope he is trying to reduce the violence.” Known for his careful choice of words, Leo does not often make direct appeals to world leaders, but he has intensified his criticism of the Iran war in the past few weeks. On Sunday, he made strong comments, stating that God does not listen to the prayers of leaders who initiate wars and have “hands full of blood.” The month-long conflict in Iran began with U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on February 28 and has spread throughout the region, resulting in thousands of deaths, disrupting energy supplies, and threatening the global economy. On Tuesday, Leo expressed sadness over the loss of life and wished for the violence to cease before Easter on April 5. “So many people have died, including innocent children,” he said. “Let’s keep asking for peace.” “There are too many individuals who encourage fighting, violence, and war,” added Leo.